How to plant Colchium bulbs

Depth, spacing & care (Autumn)

Colchicums (often called “autumn crocus,” “meadow saffron,” or “naked ladies”) are unusual and enchanting bulbs that flower in late summer to autumn—when many other plants have already finished. Their blossoms appear seemingly from bare ground, before any foliage emerges, which is why they earned the nickname “naked ladies.” The leaves sprout only later, typically in spring, and die down by early summer.

These blooms bring a magical, almost unexpected flair to the garden, offering colors in shades of pink, lavender, white, and sometimes deeper tones. Because they flower when few others do, colchicums extend the season’s interest and pair beautifully with autumnal perennials, late grasses, or among deciduous shrubs whose leaves are fading.

Be cautious: all parts of Colchicum are highly toxic. None of it should be ingested, and care should be taken when handling.

How to plant

When to Plant

Plant Colchicum corms in late summer (often August or early September) so they’re ready to bloom in the fall. Some species may also be planted a bit earlier, but autumn-flowering types generally perform best when established just before their dormant period.

Where to Plant

Select a site that receives full sun to part shade. Colchicums prefer soils that are moist but not waterlogged, with good drainage crucial to prevent rot. Because their foliage appears in spring and can remain through early summer, place them where surrounding plants or groundcovers can mask the leaves later on.

Preparing the Soil

Loosen the soil to a depth of 15–20 cm and remove stones or debris. If your soil is heavy, amend it with compost, leaf mold, or grit to improve structure and drainage. The soil should be fertile and consistently moist without being soggy.

Planting the Corms

Set each corm with the pointed end up, placing them about 7.5–12 cm (3–5 inches) deep. Leave spacing of about 15 cm (6 inches) between corms. In many varieties, blooms may appear even the first year after planting if conditions are suitable.

After Planting

Water gently to settle the soil around the corms. Keep moisture moderate: during their dormant season, avoid overwatering, but resume moisture as they begin to grow.

Spring Growth & Blooming

In autumn, flowers appear before leaves: the “naked” blooms emerge from the ground in varying shades and forms. Leaves will then follow in spring, growing until early summer before dying back.

After Blooming

Allow the foliage to die back naturally and fully — don’t remove leaves prematurely, as they supply energy to the corms for future flowering. Once leaves are fully withered, clean up the area. If corms become crowded, you can divide clumps in mid-summer during dormancy.

Extra Growing Tips

Colchicums look best massed in sweeps or drifts rather than isolated singly. Because the bloom and foliage phases are separate, plan companion plants or grasses that complement their timing and hide foliage. In containers, they can work well if planted deeply and watered carefully. With correct conditions, colchicums reliably multiply and return each autumn with little fuss.

Planting Guide

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