Lawn Plantings

It is quite magical to convert a lawn into a vibrant floral spring tapestry. Childhood sightings of lawns sparkling with lavender, purple, yellow and white gems convinced us that something divine was in the spring air after long winters indoors.

Most often, Species Crocus are used for lawn plantings since they bloom so very early, two weeks earlier than Large Flowering Crocus, in fact. Species Crocus allow lawns to be mowed at a somewhat 'normal' time, since one must wait to mow until after Crocus foliage has died back naturally. The longer the foliage thrives, the better. It permits maximum photosynthesis and chlorophyll production that feeds and grows bulbs for long-term viability and performance.

One may also choose to plant other varieties of bulbs in lawns, like Large Flowering Crocus, Ipheion, Scilla siberica Spring Beauty or Chionodoxa. But to do so means that the lawn can not be mowed until its foliage has died back naturally, and it could be around six weeks later than Species Crocus plantings, depending on the weather in any given spring.

Regardless of the type of little flower bulb planted in a lawn, make sure to plant the bulbs at least as deep as specified. Frost heaving can push bulbs up over time. Make sure to plant them at least the proper spacing apart to avoid root entanglement that can diminish long-term viability and performance.

For new home construction, or refurbished lawns, contractors may also regrade a lawn area, taking care to check the soil composition, amending it as necessary to come as close to a neutral pH sandy loam as possible. Species Crocus bulbs may be laid out, about 4" apart, and the area may be covered with about 2" of soil and covered with grass sod. It is wise to lightly water it all in. The Species Crocus will grow right through the sod the following spring. Just like magic.

Back to Top