Growing saffron postulate solitaire and dedication , as it takes a significant issue of crocus flower to produce just a modest amount of saffron . To give you an approximation , about 150 crocus flowers are needed to yield just one gram of saffron crocus . This may seem like a mickle , but the beautiful and delicate orange yellow strands are definitely worth the exploit .
The orange yellow crocus , scientifically known as Crocus sativus , is a unique and challenging plant . It bloom in autumn , ornament our garden with its sensational purple bloom . However , it is the red - orange stigmas of these heyday that are sought after for their culinary and medicinal uses .
If you are debate growing saffron , it ’s significant to notice that you will need to place in a substantial routine of saffron bulbs . Each bulb produces only a single flower , and each flower contains three stigma that are cautiously handpicked to obtain Crocus sativus strand . This signify that for each g of orange yellow , you will need to glean the stigmas from roughly 150 flowers .
Growing saffron crocuses is relatively easy , but it does require specific conditions . These flora prefer well - drained soil , preferably sandy or loamy , and a sunny location . It is advisable to plant the bulbs in late summer , around August or September , to allow them to set up before flowering in autumn .
Once the crocus flowers bloom , it is fourth dimension for the fragile and labor - intensive process of harvesting the saffron . The flowers are typically picked early in the break of the day when they are still fresh and vivacious . The stigmas , which are the yarn - similar social organisation in the marrow of the heyday , need to be cautiously plucked by helping hand . This process is sentence - consuming and necessitate forbearance , as each flower needs to be individually attended to .
After the stigmas are harvested , they need to be dry to preserve their flavor and aroma . This can be done by spread them out on a tray or using a dehydrator go down at a low-pitched temperature . Once dry , the orange yellow strands can be salt away in an airtight container in a coolheaded , disconsolate berth for future use .
While growing saffron may seem like a intimidating task due to the with child number of crocus flowers involve , it can also be a rewarding and satisfying experience . The vibrant purple flowers , the finespun act of plucking the stigmas , and the resulting precious orange yellow strands all kick in to the unique charm of this endeavor .
If you are considering growing saffron , be set up to commit prison term and exertion to the process . While it may take approximately 150 crocus peak to produce just one Hans C. J. Gram of saffron , the beauty and flavor of this valued spicery make it all worthwhile .
Caroline Bates
