Share
Are you obsessed with the viral reels that show people growing saffron at home in mini pots? It may seem surreal but it’s totally doable! Saffron may be a sought-after spice that is also quite expensive but some varieties of saffron can actually be grown at home with the help of Crocus sativus. Saffron comes from the stigma (the female part of the flower) of the Crocus sativus flower, which blooms in the fall. Each flower produces three red stigmas, which are harvested as saffron threads.
The saffron crocus is a perennial, meaning it will regrow each year from the same corm (a bulb-like storage organ). Saffron requires a climate with hot, dry summers and cool, moist winters but it can be grown in a variety of environments with proper care. Well-drained, loamy soil with a pH between 6 and 8 is ideal for growing saffron. Here are some other basic tips you should know.
Choosing Quality Corms
Purchase corms from reputable suppliers to ensure they are disease-free and high quality. Larger corms generally produce more vigorous plants and more flowers, which in turn yield more saffron threads. Plant corms in late summer to early fall, about 6-8 weeks before the first frost.
The saffron plant corms 3-4 inches deep and 6 inches apart to give them enough space to grow and multiply. Choose a location that receives full sun, as saffron crocus needs plenty of light for optimal growth.
Prep the soil
Ensure excellent drainage by adding sand or gravel to heavy soils. Raised beds or mounded rows can also improve drainage. Incorporate well-rotted compost or organic matter into the soil before planting to provide essential nutrients.
Water the corms thoroughly after planting to help them establish roots. Keep the soil slightly moist but not waterlogged during the growing season. Overwatering can lead to rot, especially during the dormant period in summer.
Monitor the growth cycle
Saffron corms enter a dormant period during the summer. They do not require much water during this time and should be kept dry. In the fall, new shoots emerge, followed by flowers. After flowering, the plants produce foliage that lasts through winter and spring.
Flowers bloom in the fall, typically over a 2-3 week period. Harvesting must be done daily as flowers open, usually in the early morning. Gently pick the flowers and carefully separate the red stigmas. Dry the stigmas quickly to preserve their quality.
Pest Control
Pest control can be an issue if you’re trying to grow saffron since they can be attracted to the corms and flowers. Use physical barriers or repellents to protect the plants. Aphids and mites can occasionally infest saffron plants. Monitor regularly and use organic insecticides or natural predators to control infestations.
Good drainage and proper spacing help prevent fungal diseases such as corm rot. Avoid overhead watering to reduce the risk of fungal infections.
