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Planting Autumn Crocus (Colchicum)


I don't believe I have ever grown autumn crocus (colchicum - I love to say that word) -  although we did inherit one when we moved into this house. I moved it, and apparently it did not like that because I never saw it again. I have always wanted to grow it, but I always think about it at the wrong time of year. Plus, I never see it at nurseries (not even at Yard N' Garden Land). When a friend offered me some, I said YES.

She gave me one special one called "Waterlily" and several that I guess we would call the  "average one". 

'Waterlily'

The question then was where on earth would I would plant them. I read that they are nice in grassy areas so I then decided to plant them along the grassy pathway in front. (This pathway is about to become a gravel pathway as I am refusing to water it daily. Michael wins this battle and gets to do the "told you so" dance.)

I decided to tuck the primo one at the corner of the path next to this pot.


Digging the hole and adding some compost. I'm planting these about 4-5 inches deep.





I put the other bulbs in other spots along the path, as well as some in the back garden. 

I expected it would be next year before seeing blooms but I read that they will bloom 4-6 weeks after planting. That is a pleasant surprise!


Text and photos by Phillip Oliver, Dirt Therapy

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