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Sativus Crocus (Saffron Corm) FAQ’s

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Unfortunately we do NOT offer farm tours at this time, due to our families privacy and protection. Thank you in advance for your understanding and support through our website.

Can I grow Saffron Corms(Sativus Crocus) where I live?

You can grow Saffron Corms (Crocus Sativus) from zones 4-10.

What is my growing zone?

Simply google your zip code with USDA Plant Hardiness Zone.

Cultivating Saffron (Crocus Sativus) in zones 4-6:

In these colder zones, the saffron crocus can survive winter temperatures. Corms are planted up to 6″ deep to provide insulation. The plants typically bloom in late summer, early fall, after which the foliage appears. The growing season is relatively short compared to warmer zones, and the crocus may go dormant earlier due to colder temperatures.

Cultivating Saffron (Crocus Sativus) in zones 7-8:

These zones offer ideal growing conditions with moderate winters and warm summers. The corms are usually hardy enough to survive without much extra protection. The saffron crocus bloom in the fall, and the foliage remains green through the winter, dying back in late spring. The warmer weather and longer growing season support healthy growth and flowering.

Cultivating Saffron (Crocus Sativus) in zones 9-10:

In these warmer zones, the saffron crocus thrives well, but it may need some protection from the intense summer heat. The plants bloom in the fall, and the foliage can stay green through winter, going dormant in late spring or early summer. These zones allow for an extended growing season, which can lead to moe vigorous plants and potentially more blooms.

When do I plant Sativus Crocus(Saffron Corms)?

Saffron is a fall blooming crocus. Planting between Aug-Oct. & harvesting Nov-Dec.

When do your corms ship?

Orders will ship Early-Mid August!

Why so far out?

Sativus Crocus(Saffron Corms) are a fall blooming crocus.

How many Saffron Corms(Sativus Crocus) come in one order?

Quantity 12 Large saffron corms

Why are my Saffron Corms(Sativus Crocus) blooming in the spring?

You are mistaken, Saffron Corms(Sativus Crocus) is a fall blooming crocus. It is easy to mistake spring blooming crocus’ as Saffron Crocus. Spring blooming crocus’ do not produce Saffron- the 3 red stigmas.

How to grow Sativus Crocus(Saffron Corms)?

Plant it in full sun and well-drained or sandy soil.

How many corms can I plant per square foot?

You can plant 24 corms per square foot. They can be touching.

Can these grow in the shade/partial shade?

Yes, they can still produce flowers in the shade, but they will be smaller.

Can I grow Saffron Corms(Sativus Crocus) in raised beds, containers or do they need to be planted in the ground?

Yes, you can grow them in raised beds, containers and/or in the ground. We recommend planting them straight into the ground, as this plant requires little water and no extra nutrients. They will grow just fine in raised beds and containers. Plant them just the same.

What special care does Sativus Crocus(Saffron Corms) need?

Saffron doesn’t require much water or nutrition. It’s an easy plant to care for.

Do you include a planting guide with purchase?

Yes, we include planting instructions with every purchase.

Will I get a harvest my first year?

Yes! Planting is done between Aug-Oct. & harvesting Nov-Dec. Typically 6-8 weeks after planting. With each subsequent season, the yield is likely to increase as the corms mature and multiply.

How much space does each plant need?

You can fit 24 plants in one square foot. They can be touching each other and they will be fine.

How do I plant the Saffron corm?

When planting saffron corms, the direction in which you place the bulbs does not impact their growth. These bulbs are naturally designed to orient themselves in the soil, with the roots growing downward and the shoots finding their way to the surface. Whether the bulb is placed upright, sideways, or even upside down, the plant will still develop correctly, ensuring a healthy saffron harvest. This resilience makes saffron crocus an easy and reliable crop to grow, even for beginners. We place our corms bottom down and (hairy) top up.

How do I protect Sativus Crocus(Saffron Corms) from predators?

A fence will help keep rabbits, squirrels and deer from leaves and flowers.

How do I harvest the Saffron spice?

Pick the flowers in the early morning, separate the stigmas at the kitchen table and dry the spice completely before storing.

How to harvest the highest grade Saffron spice?

When we harvest our saffron threads we remove the white and yellow thread, leaving only the most potent and highest quality saffron spice- Negin. Negin saffron is the highest quality of saffron, not a type. Anyone growing Saffron Corms(Sativus Crocus) can achieve this grade. The 3 threads are all attached to one main thread that blends from crimson red, to yellow and then white. Removing the yellow and white portion of the stigma will give you Negin Saffron.

What does Saffron taste like?

Saffron has a subtle sweet-earthy flavor, I’d argue that Saffron spice tastes like summer. Saffron makes a healthy spice and is used to add color & flavor to many dishes- soups, seafood, rice, chicken, pastries, desert, butter, cheese, and so on.

Does Sativus Crocus(Saffron Corms) reproduce?

Saffron corms reproduce- new corms grow on old corms.

Do I need to dig up my corms to protect them from freezing in the winter?

No, Sativus Crocus(Saffron Corms) are hardy from zones 4-10. Planting them 6 inches deep, provides enough insulation from freezing temperatures. This crocus will even bloom in the snow.

What is the life cycle of Sativus Crocus(Saffron Corms)?

Corms are planted in the late summer, bloom in the fall, leaves dry out in May, and corms reproduce in the spring and summer.

When should I water my Sativus Crocus (Saffron Corms)?

Water during spring and summer when corms are formed.

Do I need to separate my corms each summer?

You don’t have to worry about separating your corms until year 4.

Why Our Saffron Corms Are Worth the Investment!

By choosing our saffron corms, you are investing in quality, reliability, and success. Our commitment to excellence ensures that you will receive the best corms, backed by expert support, to help you grow the finest saffron. Thank you for choosing She’s Rooted Home for your saffron-growing needs.

Pre orders are now open for 2024 season. Place your order as normal and you will guarantee yourself a spot for the earliest Saffron Corm shipments: Early-Mid August with Free Shipping!

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