Crocuses are among the earliest spring bulbs, grown from small corms. Iowa State University Extension advises planting them in well-drained soil in partial to full sun, with the corms 3 to 4 inches deep and 3 to 4 inches apart, and in groups of 25 or more for the most impact.
Crocus at a glance
| Type | Flower |
|---|---|
| Season | Perennial |
| Sun | Partial to full sun |
| Plant spacing | 3.5 in |
| Row spacing | 3 in |
| Per square foot | 9 |
| Seed depth | 3.5 in |
| Days to maturity | Blooms in early spring |
| How to start | Spring-flowering crocuses are typically planted in fall, ahead of the cold. |
| Water | 0.5 in per week |
These are the same numbers our plant spacing, square foot and harvest date calculators use. See every crop in the plant database.
When to plant crocus
Spring-flowering crocuses are typically planted in fall, ahead of the cold. Check your growing zone and frost dates.
How to plant crocus
- Plant 3 to 4 inches deep and 3 to 4 inches apart; use the plant spacing calculator.
- Plant in groups of 25 or more for the most visual impact.
- Choose well-drained soil and partial to full sun. Good spots include perennial beds, rock gardens and among low-growing groundcovers.
Caring for crocus
Avoid planting crocuses in lawns: mowing before the foliage has died back can damage the plants. See the garden watering calculator for watering.
Companion plants
| Grow nearby | Low groundcovers, rock garden plants and other spring bulbs such as hyacinth |
|---|---|
| Keep apart | Lawns that are mown early |
Mowing before foliage dies back damages the plants. Check other pairings with the companion plant finder.
Common problems
| Problem | What you see | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Damage in lawns | Cut or weak foliage | Mowing before the foliage has died back can damage the plants; plant in beds instead. |
Not sure what you are looking at? The plant problem identifier ranks likely causes from the symptoms you see.
When and how to harvest
Crocuses are grown for their early color and are not harvested.
Plan your crocus
- Plant spacing calculator: how many plants fit your bed
- Planting calendar: sowing and transplant dates for your frost dates
- Frost dates by ZIP code: your last spring and first fall frost
- Harvest date calculator: when your crop will be ready
Frequently asked questions
How far apart should I plant crocuses?
Space crocuses 3.5 inches apart in rows 3 inches apart. In a square foot garden, plant 9 per square foot.
How deep do I plant crocus corms?
Plant crocus corms 3 to 4 inches deep and 3 to 4 inches apart.
How long do crocuses take to grow?
Plant in groups of 25 or more for the most visual impact.
How much water do crocuses need?
About 0.5 inches of water a week, from rain and watering combined. Use well-drained soil; avoid soggy sites.
How deep do I plant crocus corms?
3 to 4 inches deep and 3 to 4 inches apart.
Can I plant crocus in my lawn?
Iowa State advises against it, because mowing before foliage dies back can damage plants.
How many crocuses should I plant together?
Groups of 25 or more give the most impact.