He is a little sun worshiper and his red stamp threads are considered the most expensive spice in the world. The saffron crocus is mainly grown in Iran. But you can also try it here and enjoy specially grown saffron threads.
How can I successfully grow a saffron crocus?
To grow saffron crocuses, plant the corms between August and September in a sunny, wind-protected location with dry, well-drained soil. Care for the plants with fertilizer in spring and carefully harvest the saffron threads with tweezers during the flowering period between October and November.
When is the saffron crocus planted?
BetweenAugustandSeptember the time has come to plant the saffron crocus tuber. It is best to buy the tubers shortly before planting. Then they dry out less and still contain fresh juice so that they can sprout quickly.
What location does the saffron crocus need?
For your saffron cultivation you need asunny and warm location. A location protected from the wind is also advantageous.
The soil at the location should be ratherdry, deeply loosened and well-drained. It is also crucial that the soil is rich in humus. It has also proven useful if the substrate is enriched with lime and a little sand.
How do you plant the saffron crocus bulb properly?
Grab the tuber and dig a planting hole that is about10to15 cm deep. Place the saffron crocus bulb there and cover it with soil. A distance of 10 cm should be maintained between individual tubers.
What care is important when growing the saffron crocus?
In terms of care, it is important to provide the saffron crocus withfertilizer every spring. Otherwise it will soon stop blooming.
Watering is irrelevant and only necessary if the heat and dryness persists.
Covering can be essential in winter. During extreme frost, protect the tubers by placing some brushwood or leaves over the planting area.
When and how is the saffron crocus harvested?
The saffron crocus is harvested duringflowering time approximately between October and November.
Each saffron thread is carefully removed withtweezers. Normally each flower has three of these threads.
Immediately after harvesting, you shoulddry the threads such as in a dehydrator. The typical aroma of Crocus sativus only develops through drying.
How to propagate the saffron crocus?
If you have had your saffron crocus in its location for at least a year, you can propagate it via itsdaughter tubers. Over time, the mother tuber independently forms daughter tubers, which only need to be dug up and planted in another location. Propagation via seeds is unusual and more time-consuming.
Is growing saffron worth it in Germany?
Although saffron is mainly grown in warmer countries such as Iran, but also Spain, Morocco and Greece, it isworthwhile to plant this crop in this country. If you care for the crocus properly and it is in a suitable location, you can enjoy the saffron blossoms for many years.
Tip
Transplanting lazy saffron crocuses
If the saffron crocus no longer wants to bloom at some point, you should transplant it. The best time for this is during the rest period between April and September.
