How To Grow and Harvest Saffron

Summary

In this video, Lindsay Del Carlo, Trial Garden Manager at Rene's Garden Seeds, guides viewers through the process of planting and harvesting saffron crocus bulbs. She explains how to prepare the soil, properly space and plant the bulbs, and maintain the bed for optimal growth. Lindsay also demonstrates how to harvest saffron threads from the flowers, dry them, and store them for long-term use. The video offers helpful tips for growing saffron in raised beds and highlights the rewards of this unique, fragrant harvest.

Takeaways

• 😀 Proper soil preparation is crucial for saffron crocus growth. Use well-broken compost and an all-purpose dry fertilizer to create moderately rich soil.
• 😀 Saffron crocus bulbs should be planted 3-4 inches deep and spaced 4 inches apart. Ensure the top end of the bulb faces upward when planting.
• 😀 Using a measuring tape and digging knife with measurements helps achieve consistent planting depth and spacing.
• 😀 Once the bulbs are planted, thoroughly water the bed to settle the soil around the bulbs. Keep the bed moderately moist going forward.
• 😀 Avoid soggy soil for saffron crocus bulbs; they thrive in well-drained soil.
• 😀 After the crocus blooms and their leaves die off, the bed can be used for planting small annuals like Johnny Jump Up or phlox.
• 😀 Saffron crocus bulbs multiply each year. To avoid overcrowding, divide the bulbs when necessary.
• 😀 Fertilize the saffron bed each summer with all-purpose fertilizer and compost to maintain healthy growth and strong blooms.
• 😀 Saffron flowers bloom in the fall and should be checked daily, as the blooms last only a single day.
• 😀 Harvest saffron by pulling the orange stigmas from the flowers, and dry them on a paper towel in a cool, dry place for 3-4 days.
• 😀 Dried saffron can be stored in a mason jar or spice container and used by steeping it in hot water for culinary purposes.

Q & A

What type of soil is ideal for planting saffron crocus bulbs?

Saffron crocus bulbs thrive in well-drained soil that has been amended with compost and a balanced all-purpose dry fertilizer to create a moderately rich bed.

How deep and far apart should saffron crocus bulbs be planted?

Saffron crocus bulbs should be planted about 3 to 4 inches deep and spaced 4 inches apart to allow room for proper growth.

What should you do to ensure the saffron crocus bulbs are planted in the correct orientation?

Make sure that the flat end of the bulb, where the roots emerge, is pointing downward, while the top end, where the sprouts appear, is facing upward.

Why is it recommended to plant saffron crocus bulbs in a raised bed?

A raised bed helps maintain well-drained soil, reduces the risk of accidental digging, and allows you to easily monitor the bulbs' growth.

How do you care for saffron crocus bulbs after planting?

After planting, water the bulbs thoroughly to settle the soil. Maintain moderate moisture throughout the growing season, ensuring the soil is not too soggy or dry.

Can saffron crocus beds be used for other plants after the crocus dies off?

Yes, after the saffron bulbs die off and their leaves wither, you can plant small annuals like Johnny Jump Up or phlox to keep the bed colorful.

When do saffron crocus flowers bloom, and how can you ensure you don't miss the harvest?

Saffron crocus flowers bloom in the fall. It’s important to check the bed daily, as the flowers only last for one day before wilting.

What part of the saffron crocus flower is harvested for saffron spice?

The saffron spice is derived from the orange stigmas, which are the female part of the flower that receives the pollen.

How should you dry the saffron stigmas after harvesting them?

Lay the harvested saffron stigmas on a plate with a paper napkin and allow them to dry in a cool, dry place for 3-4 days.

What is the best way to store dried saffron for long-term use?

Store dried saffron in an airtight container, such as a mason jar or an old spice jar. You can also freeze the saffron if you don’t plan to use it immediately.