CROCUSES are among the most vivid harbingers of spring, bringing immediate impact to the dowdy late-winter garden. They are easy to grow and look especially striking when planted in a variety of colours.
We have TWELVE of the latest sparkling Crocus Mixed packs from Thompson & Morgan to give away in this competition.
Each pack, worth £9.99, contains 50 corms which will produce flowers of gold, purple, white or blue-striped. They will reach our winners in early autumn at the right time for planting.
They are perfect for planting in rockeries, naturalising in grass, or growing in large groups beneath trees and shrubs. Just scatter a handful of bulbs and plant them where they fall for a really natural effect.
For a more compact display grow crocus in containers or window boxes where you can appreciate their bright flowers and light scent close up. Planted in containers, they can be moved into prime position when they are in full bloom.
Crocuses tolerate most soils, as long as the ground does not become waterlogged, and will grow in sun or light shade. Plant them 7.5cm (3in) deep and, for the best effect, 5cm (2in) apart in the soil and closer in containers.
Grey squirrels or mice sometimes dig up the corms. To prevent that, after planting, spread a sheet of small-gauge wire mesh above and around the corms. Sparrows occasionally peck the flowers, especially light-coloured ones, but can be deterred by black cotton tied between twigs pushed into the ground.
To enter the competition, answer this question: How deep should crocus corms be planted?
email your entry with your name, address and telephone number to:
competition@alltogethernow.org.uk
Please use the word CROCUS in the subject box – and please also tell us what you think of All Together NOW! Thanks.
For the full range of Thompson & Morgan bulbs and plants, go to www.thompson-morgan.com.
