Growli

Troubleshooting

Crocus 'Jeanne d'Arc' problems — and how to fix them

Crocus 'Jeanne d'Arc' (Crocus vernus 'Jeanne d'Arc') is generally forgiving once you match its basics, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.

Corm rot in wet soil

Waterlogged or heavy clay, especially over a wet summer dormancy, rots corms. Plant in sharp-draining ground or raised beds and never irrigate dormant bulbs.

Squirrels and rodents digging corms

Newly planted corms are dug up and eaten. Cover plantings with chicken wire or plant deeper, and add grit which deters digging.

Few or no flowers after the first year

Usually from cutting foliage too early or planting in too much shade. Let leaves yellow and die naturally to recharge the corm, and site in full sun.

Flowers flattened by weather

Top-heavy blooms can flop in heavy rain or wind. Plant in sheltered drifts and through low groundcover, which supports the stems.

Prevent crocus 'jeanne d'arc' problems before they start

Most crocus 'jeanne d'arc' issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:

Looking for the species overview? Crocus — the full care guide.

Crocus 'Jeanne d'Arc' problems — FAQ

Why is my crocus 'jeanne d'arc' corm rot in wet soil?

Waterlogged or heavy clay, especially over a wet summer dormancy, rots corms. Plant in sharp-draining ground or raised beds and never irrigate dormant bulbs.

Why is my crocus 'jeanne d'arc' squirrels and rodents digging corms?

Newly planted corms are dug up and eaten. Cover plantings with chicken wire or plant deeper, and add grit which deters digging.

Why is my crocus 'jeanne d'arc' few or no flowers after the first year?

Usually from cutting foliage too early or planting in too much shade. Let leaves yellow and die naturally to recharge the corm, and site in full sun.

Why is my crocus 'jeanne d'arc' flowers flattened by weather?

Top-heavy blooms can flop in heavy rain or wind. Plant in sheltered drifts and through low groundcover, which supports the stems.