Crocus 'Vanguard'

10 bulbs
£4.89
£0.49 each
50 bulbs
£19.49
£0.39 each
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100 bulbs
£34.99
£0.35 each
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Vanguard' means the foremost part of an advancing army or group. This crocus earns its name by being one of the very first of the large-flowered Dutch crocuses to bloom each spring.

A classic and distinguished large-flowered Dutch Crocus, 'Vanguard' is highly prized for its unique bi-colour flowers and its early appearance. True to its name, it's often at the forefront of the Crocus vernus varieties, blooming several weeks ahead of many others. The blooms are particularly large and robust, with a beautiful and unusual colouring. The outer petals are a soft, shimmering shade of silvery-lilac or light grey-mauve, while the inner petals are a contrasting, richer shade of amethyst or lavender-violet. This two-tone effect is exceptionally beautiful, especially when seen in large drifts where the colours can blend and shimmer in the spring light. 'Vanguard' is a vigorous and reliable grower, making it an excellent choice for naturalising in lawns and under trees, where it will multiply year after year to create a truly impressive and long-lasting display.

Botanical name Crocus vernus 'Vanguard'
Flower colour Purple, Lilac, Silver
Bulb size 8/9 cm
Established height 10-15 cm
Established spread 8-10 cm
Plant spacing 75-100 bulbs per m²
Leaf colour Green with a silver stripe
Habit Clump-forming
Life cycle Perennial
Hardiness Fully hardy
Years to establish 1st year
Sunlight Full sun, Partial shade
Position Exposed or Sheltered
Suitable for Lawns, Borders, Pots, Rockeries, Underplanting
Soil acidity Any
Soil moisture Well-drained
Soil type Loam, Sandy, Chalky
RHS Award (AGM) Yes
Growing skill Easy to grow
Pollinator-friendly Yes
Deer resistant No

Where to Plant:

Known for being one of the very first of the large Dutch crocuses to flower, 'Vanguard' is perfect for heralding the end of winter. Its unique bicolour flowers, with silvery-grey outer petals and a soft violet interior, look wonderful in large drifts. It is an excellent choice for naturalising in lawns, planting at the front of borders, or grouping in containers. For the most reliable display, choose a spot in full sun or light, dappled shade with well-drained soil.

How to Plant:

You should plant the corms in the autumn, anytime from September to November, for flowers the following spring. Plant each corm with the pointed tip facing upwards, at a depth of about 8-10cm. For a naturalistic display in grass or borders, the best method is to gently scatter the corms and then plant each one where it has landed. Space them at least 8cm apart to allow them room to multiply and form dense clumps over the years.

Aftercare:

This crocus requires very little maintenance. The most important rule is to allow the grassy foliage to die back on its own after the flowers have faded, which takes about six weeks. If they are planted in a lawn, do not mow the area during this period. This allows the corm to absorb sunlight and store energy for the next year's flowers. Once established, they are fully hardy and will not need watering.

Planting and Flowering Calendar

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Key Features

Packed in paper

Packed peat-free

Great for Shade

Attracts wildlife

Low maintenance

RHS Award (AGM)

Perfect for pots

Naturalising

Crocus 'Vanguard' - Harding & Bloom

Crocus 'Vanguard'

£4.89

£4.89

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Kind Words from Our Gardeners

Arrived quickly and well-packaged. Planted them in some pots on the patio and they all came up. Look beautiful. Thank you!

Careane Wallace

Oxfordshire, UK

The bulbs arrived beautifully packaged and you could just tell they were excellent quality. We had the most wonderful display of daffodils this spring on our patio. Simply stunning. Will definitely be ordering again

David P

Kent, UK

I ordered the mixed hyacinth collection and the scent in my garden this April was absolutely heavenly. Every single bulb produced a strong, beautiful flower and the colours were stunning together. A fantastic purchase, I'll be back for more next year!

Eleanor R

Somerset