Crocuses

Spring is a time of great anticipation, as flowers begin to bloom and gardens come back to life after the long winter months. A vibrant spring flowering bulb that is a must-have in any garden is the stunning crocus.

At Peter Nyssen, we stock a variety of top-quality crocus bulbs to add a vibrant burst of colour to add unique character to your garden. Whether you're looking for the rich purples of the Dutch crocus grand maitre or the cheerful yellows of crocus chrysanthus, we have a wide selection of crocus bulbs to enhance your outdoor space. Browse our stunning collection of crocus bulbs online today or take a look at our wider range of bulbs to plant in autumn for the ultimate selection.

Benefits of crocuses

Crocus bulbs offer a host of benefits making them a popular choice among gardening enthusiasts, here are some of the benefits of crocuses:

• Early bloomers: As one of the first flowers to bloom in spring, crocus bulbs bring a much-needed splash of colour to the end of winter landscapes
• Variety of colours: Crocus bulbs bloom in an array of vibrant colours, including purple, yellow, white and even striped varieties, adding a dynamic element to any garden.
• Low maintenance: These hardy bulbs require minimal care once planted, making them perfect for both novice gardeners and those with busy schedules.
• Naturalisers: Crocus bulbs are excellent naturalisers. This means they spread and multiply over time, creating a beautiful, self-sustaining patch of blooms.
• Versatile: Crocus bulbs are versatile and can be grown in garden beds, containers, or even naturalised in lawns, offering a variety of planting options.
• Tolerant to cold weather: Spring flowering crocus bulbs are hardy and can withstand winter temperatures.
• Crocus bulbs are generally resistant to diseases.

How to plant and maintain crocuses

To get the best results from your crocus bulbs bulbs, care must be taken to ensure that the bulbs are planted in the best conditions to thrive, such as:

• Plant crocus bulbs in late summer or early autumn, about 4-6 weeks before the ground freezes.
• Choose a sunny or partially shaded spot with well-draining soil.
• Loosen the soil and remove any weeds. Incorporate organic matter or compost to improve drainage and fertility.
• Plant the bulbs about 8cm deep and space them 5cm apart. Plant with the pointed end facing upward.
• Keep the soil slightly moist during the growing season, especially in the early stages. Avoid overwatering to prevent bulb rot.
• Apply a layer of organic mulch to help retain moisture and suppress weed growth.
• Every 3-4 years, dig up crowded clumps after the foliage has withered. Separate the bulbs and replant them to maintain vigor and enhance flowering.
• Squirrels, mice and birds may dig up or eat the bulbs. Protective netting or wire mesh can be used to deter them.
• Remove faded flowers to encourage better bulb development for the following year.
• Allow the foliage to die back naturally. This allows the bulbs to store energy for next year's growth.

For guidance on how to get the best from your crocuses, take a look at our crocus planting guide.

Why you should order your crocus bulbs from Peter Nyssen

• We are a friendly, family run business with more than 60 years experience
• We offer bulk prices and free delivery for orders over £50
• We supply flower bulbs in quantities large and small, for all types of gardener from the cottage potterer through to the professional landscaper
• We offer high-quality flower bulbs at great prices Crocus bulbs are a fantastic choice for any spring garden.
• We are constantly working to improve our carbon footprint and we want to help you garden in a more environmentally sustainable way, too. Read our Green Credentials

With their early blooming period, variety of colours, low maintenance needs and versatile uses, they are sure to bring joy and beauty to your outdoor space. Don't hesitate to browse the range available online at Peter Nyssen this year and experience their magic for yourself. For help and advice, call our team on 0161 747 4000.

How to plant Crocus Corms

Spring Flowering Crocus

These delightful and vibrant crocus flowers are among the first to appear in the spring. Bringing a burst of colour to gardens, borders, and containers. They’ll often flower just between when the snowdrops have finished and daffodils are about to begin. 

The two main types of crocus are 

Large flowering crocus; flowers of 5-8cm in purple, yellow, white, striped and blue. 

Species crocus; smaller flowers of 2-3cm with more complex colours and markings. 

Planting Spring Flowering Crocus:

Plant crocus bulbs in late summer or early autumn, about 4-6 weeks before the ground freezes.
Choose a sunny or partially shaded spot with well-draining soil.
Loosen the soil and remove any weeds. Incorporate organic matter or compost to improve drainage and fertility.
Plant the bulbs about 8cm deep and space them 5cm apart. Plant with the pointed end facing upward.

Growing Spring Flowering Crocus:

Keep the soil slightly moist during the growing season, especially in the early stages. Avoid overwatering to prevent bulb rot.
Apply a layer of organic mulch to help retain moisture and suppress weed growth.
Every 3-4 years, dig up crowded clumps after the foliage has withered. Separate the bulbs and replant them to maintain vigor and enhance flowering.

Caring for Spring Flowering Crocus:

Crocus bulbs are generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, watch out for squirrels, mice, and birds that may dig up or eat the bulbs. Protective netting or wire mesh can be used to deter them.
Remove faded flowers to encourage better bulb development for the following year.
Allow the foliage to die back naturally. This allows the bulbs to store energy for next year's growth.
Spring flowering crocus bulbs are hardy and can withstand winter temperatures.

Crocus flowers are a vital source of food for bees in early spring.