Description
Crocus Pickwick (Crocus vernus)
Crocus Pickwick is a striking variety of Crocus vernus, commonly known as Dutch Crocus. Native to Southern Europe and the Mediterranean, this large-flowered corm perennial features pristine white petals beautifully etched with fine purple veins, creating an elegant, hand-painted effect. The bright orange stamens add a vibrant pop of colour, making the blooms truly stand out. Emerging before the foliage, these early bloomers herald spring with a dazzling display when few other flowers bloom.
Uses in the Garden
Crocuses suit almost any garden space, from lawns and borders to pots and hanging baskets. Their pollinator-friendly blooms open in the sunshine and close at night or in the rain. Perfect for naturalising, they return yearly, adding effortless, low-maintenance beauty.
Key Uses:
- Naturalising in lawns, beds, and meadows
- Adding early colour to borders and deciduous trees
- Planting in containers for portable displays
- Supporting early pollinators with nectar
Climate Suitability
Crocuses grow well in cool to subtropical climates. In cool regions, they naturalise easily due to consistent winter chill. Mediterranean and arid areas benefit from dry summers that reduce rot risk, but good drainage is essential. In subtropical regions, a 6-week chilling period during dormancy can enhance flowering, with planting in cooler spots advised to minimise heat stress.
How to Store Crocus Bulbs Upon Arrival
Inspect the corms upon arrival and store them in a cool, dry place away from moisture and heat.
Storage Tips:
- Use a breathable container like a mesh or paper bag.
- Store in a cupboard or shed, away from direct sunlight.
- Avoid storing near fruit that releases ethylene gas, which can damage bulbs.
- Plant from March onwards once the ground has cooled.
How to Plant Crocus Pickwick
- Location: Plant in full sun to light shade.
- Soil: Ensure the soil is well-drained. Amend clay soils with sand or compost.
- Depth & Spacing: Plant bulbs 10 cm deep and 7-10 cm apart. In warmer climates, plant deeper to protect from heat fluctuations.
- Watering: Water thoroughly after planting to help the corms settle. Minimal watering is needed once established.
- Fertilising: Apply blood and bone or a balanced fertiliser at planting to support growth.
- Mulching: Add a light mulch layer to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Aftercare
Allow the foliage to naturally wither after blooming to help the corms store energy. For crocuses in lawns, delay mowing until the foliage dies back. In wet summers, lift and store corms during dormancy to prevent rot. In warmer, humid areas, a 6-week chilling period ensures consistent flowering. Alternatively, treat crocuses as annuals and plant new corms each year.
Division
Divide clumps every 3-5 years to prevent overcrowding and maintain healthy growth. Crocuses multiply over time, forming large clumps that may reduce flowering.
How to Divide:
- Timing: Late summer when the corms are dormant.
- Lifting: Use a garden fork to lift clumps from the soil gently.
- Separating: Pull apart corms, ensuring each has roots attached.
- Replanting: Replant immediately or store in a cool, dry place until the next season.
Pests and Diseases
Crocuses are generally low-maintenance but can be affected by pests and diseases if conditions are too wet or poorly drained.
Common Pests:
- Slugs/snails: Use crushed eggshells or coffee grounds as deterrents.
- Rodents/birds: Protect bulbs with chicken wire to prevent digging.
Common Diseases:
- Botrytis (Grey Mould): Ensure good air circulation and avoid overwatering.
- Corm Rot: Plant in well-drained soil to prevent waterlogging.
Safety
Crocuses are harmful if eaten, potentially causing stomach upset in humans and pets. If ingested or if any symptoms occur, seek medical advice immediately.
Safety Tips:
- Keep bulbs out of reach of pets and children.
- Wear gloves if you have sensitive skin when handling bulbs.
- Monitor pets to prevent accidental ingestion during the planting or blooming periods.
Supplied as dormant bulbs.