The plant needs an open area to have full sun all summer. Like other wild plants, prairie crocus is dependent on fungal partners in the soil, in order to thrive. This requires exposing seed to a cold and damp period prior to planting. Seed can be placed in a clean bag or container with a little sterilized dampened sand. Refrigerate from one to three weeks, then plant.
Fire removes the dead plant litter and returns minerals and light to the soil surface.
As awareness of the importance of fire as a natural disturbance is increasing, its use as a management tool for natural areas is increasing. Burning too often can be detrimental to other organisms. Old Man's Garden. Currah, R. A. Smreciu and M. Van Dyk. Friends of the Devonian Botanic Garden, Univ. of Alberta, Edmonton.