Crocus for Early Spring Colour: The First Bulbs to Bloom

Crocus are usually the very first bulbs to flower, often pushing through late snow to open in February. A drift of crocus is one of the surest signs that the garden is waking up.

Where to plant crocus

Crocus naturalise beautifully in lawns, along path edges, and under deciduous trees and shrubs where they get full light before the canopy fills in. They also do well in pots for an early splash near the front door.

A reliable variety

The Crocus 'Bicolour Collection' (buy from Thompson & Morgan →) combines contrasting purple-and-white and yellow-and-purple forms for a lively mixed display rather than a single block of colour.

Planting depth and timing

Plant crocus bulbs (technically corms) in September or October, around 8-10cm deep. In grass, scatter and plant where they fall for a natural look, then avoid mowing that area until the foliage has died back.

Extending the display

Because crocus flower and fade before most other spring bulbs get going, they pair well as an early act ahead of daffodils, tulips and — a few weeks later — the first hardy orchids such as Pleione, which bloom from March.

Stock up now: Thompson & Morgan bulbs are 12% off with code TM_TAW435W, valid to 31 October 2026.