Growing Non-GMO Pickwick Crocus Flower Bulbs

Plant Pickwick corms in the fall, about 4 inches deep with the pointed end facing up, spaced 3-4 inches apart. Well-drained soil is the most important condition for success — crocuses are prone to rot in soggy ground, so amend heavy clay soils with compost or sand before planting. Full sun produces the most vigorous blooms, though partial shade is tolerated and will help the flowers last a bit longer. Pickwick benefits from a cold period, which it receives naturally when planted outdoors in the fall. Water well after planting to help the corms establish roots before winter, then apply a layer of mulch to protect them from extreme temperature swings.

Crocus requires very little ongoing care. Deadheading is not necessary. After blooming, allow the foliage to die back on its own — it is recharging the corm for the following season and should not be cut back early. Pickwick naturalizes readily, spreading over time by corm offsets into increasingly dense and impressive drifts. If clumps become overcrowded after several years and blooming declines, lift and divide them after the foliage has died back in late spring or early summer.

Pickwick Crocus in the Flower Garden

Pickwick is one of the first bulbs to bloom each spring, often pushing up through the last of the snow before any other plants have stirred. Its silver-lilac petals with bold, darker stripes make it one of the most visually distinctive crocus varieties — easy to identify and striking in mass plantings. The cup-shaped flowers open fully in bright sun and close at night and on overcast days, making them a dynamic and lively presence in the early spring garden. Bees are among the first pollinators to emerge in spring, and crocuses are one of their earliest and most important nectar sources of the season.

Landscape Use of Pickwick Crocus

Pickwick is well-suited to borders, edging, rock gardens, and containers, and is an excellent choice for naturalizing in lawns and under deciduous trees. Because the foliage is low and dies back before most grasses resume active growth, it can be planted in turf areas with minimal interference. It pairs naturally with other early spring bulbs — try it alongside daffodils, grape hyacinths, or early tulips for a succession of color. For the most dramatic effect, plant in large drifts of twenty or more corms.

About Pickwick Crocus Garden Bulbs

Pickwick belongs to the Dutch Large Flowering group of Crocus vernus, a class developed from wild crocus native to the high alpine regions of Europe — the Pyrenees, Alps, and Carpathians. Dutch Large Flowering crocuses produce bigger blooms than species crocus and typically flower about two weeks later in the season.

The genus name Crocus derives from krokos, the ancient Greek name for saffron, a close relative. The species name vernus simply means "of spring," a fitting description for one of the season's earliest bloomers.

Crocus flowers are not recommended for consumption by humans or pets. The corms, in particular, can be toxic if ingested and should be kept away from dogs and cats.

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Tips From Our Gardeners

Squirrels are the one real enemy of crocus corms. If they are a problem in your garden, try planting the corms under a layer of wire mesh just below the soil surface — the shoots come up through it just fine, but the squirrels cannot dig the corms out.

- Jerry Sawyer, True Leaf Market Writer

Pickwick Crocus Flower Bulbs Per Package:

• 10 Bulb Bag

Non-GMO Pickwick Crocus Bulbs are available for Fast Free Shipping on qualifying orders.