Will these spots kill my crocus?

Usually not, but they can weaken the plant and reduce its energy storage for next year. Treat them early to keep the foliage healthy until it dies back naturally.

Should I cut off the spotted leaves?

Yes, removing infected leaves helps prevent the fungus from spreading to healthy parts of the plant. Always use clean scissors and dispose of the clippings in the trash, not your compost.

Spring Crocus: spots, causes and fixes

Check these first

Inspect the undersides of the leaves for powdery spores.
Clear away any decaying leaves or mulch touching the stems.
Check if the plants are crowded too closely together.

Likely causes

Fungal Leaf Blotch
Possible
How to tell: You will see small brown or black spots that may spread across the leaf surface. It often happens during cool, wet spring weather.
What to do: Remove and destroy any infected foliage immediately to stop the spread. Improve airflow by thinning out nearby plants and avoid overhead watering.
Rust
Possible
How to tell: Look for orange or reddish powdery pustules on the undersides of the leaves. This fungus thrives in humid conditions.
What to do: Clear away dead plant matter from the soil surface to reduce fungal spores. Apply a copper based fungicide if the infection is widespread.

Leaf spots on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your spring crocus

The list above covers the usual causes. Pocket Botanist looks at a photo of your actual plant and tells you the likely cause, how serious it is, and what to try first. Identification and a health check are free.

When to worry

Worry if the spots cover most of the leaf and cause it to collapse early. A few small marks are usually just a minor reaction to spring rain.

Stopping it coming back

Ensure your crocus are planted in well draining soil and give them plenty of space for air to move between them.

Spring Crocus: spots? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your spring crocus and Pocket Botanist tells you which cause is most likely, how serious it is, and what to try first. A few checks a day are free. Save the plant and you get care reminders timed for it.

Get the app · Or check it from a photo now, free

Questions people ask

Will these spots kill my crocus?: Usually not, but they can weaken the plant and reduce its energy storage for next year. Treat them early to keep the foliage healthy until it dies back naturally.
Should I cut off the spotted leaves?: Yes, removing infected leaves helps prevent the fungus from spreading to healthy parts of the plant. Always use clean scissors and dispose of the clippings in the trash, not your compost.

Guides to these causes

Rust

Why does my spring crocus have spots on its leaves?