Buy early crocus bulbs Crocus tommasinianus

Crocus tommasinianus

Position: full sun or light dappled shade
Soil: gritty, poor to moderately fertile, well-drained soil
Rate of growth: average
Flowering period: February to March
Hardiness: fully hardy
Bulb size: 5

The flowers on this small crocus can vary from pale slivery lilac to reddish purple, but whatever the colour, it is always a welcome sight in late winter. This is one of the easiest crocuses to naturalise as it will self-seed readily. A good companion for dwarf grasses - or lawns that have had a trim late in the autumn - so the flowers can be better seen. It is more tolerant of shade than many of its counterparts, so is a good choice for woodland areas. It will also be a magnet for whatever insects may be active so early in the year.
Garden care: Plant bulbs in tight clusters to form naturalistic drifts 10cm deep where they can be left undisturbed for several years. Keep a lookout for damage from mice or squirrels. This can sometimes be avoided by laying a piece of chicken wire over the bulbs before you cover them with soil. If you are growing these in grass, avoid mowing it until the leaves have completely died back.