Saffron: How to Grow the World s Most Precious Spice
Crocus sativus
Growing saffron: small bulb with autumn purple flowers and red stigmas. The world’s most precious spice, can be grown at home.
Characteristics
Saffron is a small bulb that blooms in autumn with elegant purple flowers, whose three dried red stigmas form the world’s most precious spice. It grows in full sun on calcareous well-drained soil and is planted in August for flowering between October and November. 150,000 flowers are needed for one kilo of spice.
Flowering season
Practical tips
Water needs: bassa — always check soil moisture before watering.
Prefers pieno sole: provide the right light and rotate the plant for even growth.
Recommended soil: calcareo drenante. Refresh the substrate every 1-2 years.
Dust the leaves with a damp cloth to support photosynthesis.
Feed during the growing season (spring-summer) and stop in winter.
