Which Way Do You Plant Crocosmia Corms?

Corm Orientation

• Corms have a wide bottom and a narrow top. The wide end, or basal plate, contains the nutrients and energy for the year's flowering. It withers after the growing season ends and is replaced by a new basal plate. The wide basal plate always goes in the bottom of the planting hole, with the narrow tip at the top. The stem of the crocosmia emerges from the narrow tip, while the roots spread out from the basal plate at the bottom.

Site Preparation

• Crocosmia grows in average garden soil as long as it drains well and doesn't become overly wet after rain or irrigation. Tilling a 2-inch layer of compost into the soil before planting the corms improves drainage and soil conditions for healthy growth. Select a site with full or partial sun exposure. Generally, a bed that receives six hours of sun each day or full morning sun and light afternoon shade allows for good crocosmia growth and flowering.

Planting Method

• Crocosmia plants require 6 to 8 inches of space between each corm to avoid overcrowding. Plant the corms 2 to 3 inches deep in the prepared garden bed. Crocosmia plants grow 2 to 4 feet tall, making them ideal as background plants behind lower-growing flowers. You can also cluster crocosmia together in smaller beds for an eye-catching display of color. When clustering bulbs, plant five to seven corms in a circle at the 6-inch spacing, and space the clusters about 12 inches apart.

Basic Care

• Corms mainly require watering after planting. Weekly watering that provides enough moisture to keep the top 6 inches of soil moist ensures best growth. Crocosmia corms grow stems and foliage the first year after planting, but they may not flower until the second year.

  Crocosmia often becomes crowded within three to five years, requiring division. To divide the corms, dig them up in late summer or early fall. Break off the withered spent basal plate, and break off any small corms growing on the side of the main corm. Replant all corms with the wide end at the bottom, spacing them appropriately.