Crocus Orange Monarch

Crocus Orange Monarch – Named after the Monarch Butterfly. Orange is a rare colour for crocus, these are probably more of a deep yellow, featuring maroon stripes on the outside petals, but they will stand out amongst the fresh greens of spring. Plant Crocus Orange Monarch in autumn for an early spring show.

Crocus Orange Monarch will flower from February to March. These flowers are smaller and earlier to flower than Dutch Crocus and tend to be cup shaped. Make sure you leave the foliage to die back to allow the bulbs to flower again the following year, this should be around April.

Crocus are wonderful perennial flowers that can create luscious carpets of flowers during spring in the gap between the early flowering snowdrops and the first tulips.

Growing Crocus bulbs

Crocus bulbs do not like to be water logged, a good sandy soil is ideal for crocus, preferably in a sunny position. They work well amongst deciduous trees as they flower before the canopy develops. If your soil is heavy, you may need to add some compost or sand to improve drainage.

Plant crocus bulbs in the autumn, a minimum of six to eight weeks before the first frost. The depth of planting depends on the size of the corms. In general, plant small corms 2 inches deep and large corms 3 inches deep. Water the crocus bulbs well after planting, and water again if the weather is dry. Once the flowers have faded, deadhead them to encourage them to bloom the following year.

Crocuses can be grown in pots. Choose a pot that is at least 6 inches deep and fill it with a well-draining potting mix. Pots dry out easily, so ensure that they crocus bulbs are well watered.

Crocuses naturalise well in your garden. Plant crocus bulbs in areas where the soil will not be disturbed, such as in your lawn or under trees. If you are planting in a lawn you can cut an envelope in the turf and slide a few in. Making sure the small point in the centre is pointing up. Make sure the foliage has died back before the first mow some time in late April.

Crocuses are deer-resistant, making them great for country gardens where deer can be a problem. Although, you may have to add a little extra protection as they are a favourite snack for mice and squirrels.