When to Plant Crocosmia Lucifer

Crocosmia "Lucifer" is an evergreen perennial flowering bulb, grown in the garden for its dramatically rich red flowers, abundance of long-stemmed bloom and its attractiveness to bees and birds. Its growth habit, slender foliage and slightly arching flower heads are reminiscent of freesia. Generally, you should plant Crocosmia Lucifer bulbs in the fall, well before the threat of frost, or in the spring, soon after the ground has thawed. Hardy in USDA hardiness zones 6a through 9b, it is impressive as a border specimen and stunning when planted in a group.

Fall Planting

• Plant Crocosmia Lucifer bulbs in the ground in the fall, provided its before heavy frosts set in. Bury the bulbs with the flat root plate facing down and eyes facing up. Plant the bulbs approximately 6 inches deep in rich, well-drained soil. Mulch over the plantings with at least 3 inches of organic material, such as shredded leaves or bark in hardiness zones 7 and 6 or lower, to avoid an possibility of damage. If fall planting is more convenient for you, it can be successful with just a little extra preparation.

Spring Planting

• Planting your Croscosmia Lucifer bulbs in early spring will give them plenty of time to develop and deliver their summer bloom. In warmer climates, you can extend the bloom period by several weeks by getting the bulbs into the ground in early spring or as soon as the ground has thawed, even if there still may be a light frost or two to come.

Late Spring or Year-Round Options

• Planting Croscomia bulbs mid- to late-spring may still allow for some bloom time later in the summer, though possibly for a shortened run. In zones 8 and 9 you can plant Crocosmia at any time of year and it will bloom in mid-summer and possibly into fall. Simply keep the soil evenly moist, but not wet.