Crocus 'Pick Wick'

Crocus bulbs are best planted in autumn, between September and November, before the first frost sets in. This gives the bulbs enough time to form roots before winter begins.

As a rule of thumb, plant crocus bulbs at a depth of about two to three times their own height. Also allow sufficient spacing between the bulbs, usually 5 to 10 cm, depending on the size of the variety.

Crocus bulbs are fairly small, so they need less depth and spacing than larger bulbs like allium.

Crocuses do well in a sunny to lightly shaded location. They like well-draining soil and tolerate shade better than allium, mainly because they often bloom before trees leaf out - so they still get enough light, even under a tree. However, consistently wet or waterlogged soil is a problem, as it increases the risk of bulb rot.

Crocuses are hardy, perennial bulbs. Provided they are planted in the right spot and the bulbs don't rot from excess moisture, they will return year after year and, in fact, crocuses are especially good at naturalizing - they'll often spread and multiply into larger drifts over time, even more readily than alliums.