How do I Grow Saffron Crocus Bulbs?

Grow saffron crocus bulbs to add the purple spice to your home garden.

Saffron crocus, a fall blooming flower, needs planting in the spring so it will bloom in the fall. The herb produces purple flowers, and is one of the most expensive spices. Asian and Mediterranean dishes typically contain this spice. The saffron crocus grows best in USDA hardiness zones 4 to 9. The bulbs are technically called corms and there are currently around 30 different species of the herb.

Things You'll Need

• Rake
• Compost
• Hand trowel
• Mulch
• Bulb fertilizer

Instructions

1. Select a location that has full sunlight and adequate drainage. Rake the top 12 inches of the soil to prepare a planting bed.

2. Improve the soil by mixing in 4 inches of compost. The saffron needs rich soil to thrive.

3. Dig a 4 to 6 inch hole with a hand trowel. Space each hole 3 to 4 inches apart.

4. Place the crocus bulbs with the nose up and the roots facing down in the hole. If you cannot tell which way you need to plant them, lay them on their side. The bulbs will turn the right way by themselves.

5. Cover the corms with soil. Pack the soil down firmly. Water the corms to remove any air pockets. Keep the soil dry until the early fall, and then water them regularly to keep the soil moist.

6. Cover the bed with 2 inches of mulch. Apply a bulb fertilizer to the planted bulbs in the fall according to the package directions.

References

• White Flower Farm: Saffron Crocus Bulbs
• Washington State University: Grow Your Own Saffron
• Colorado State University: Bulbs: Fall Flowering Crocus