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Instructions on Growing Crocus Sativus

Crocus sativus is commonly called saffron crocus. Its fall-blooming flowers have thread-like yellow stigma that are the source of saffron spice, which is one of the world's most expensive spices. Saffron crocus blooms well the first year and sparsely thereafter, and the bulbs often rot in the ground in areas with moist winters. For profuse flowering, grow it as an annual. It needs full sun, low rainfall and a gritty, well-drained soil of poor to moderate fertility.

Things You'll Need

  • Trowel or bulb planter
  • Crocus sativus bulbs
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Instructions

    • 1

      Use a hand trowel or bulb planter to dig a hole four inches deep.

    • 2

      Place the Crocus sativus bulb in the hole, pointed end up.

    • 3

      Fill the hole with soil and firm gently with your hands.

    • 4

      Plant the next and each additional bulb six inches from the previous bulb.

    • 5

      Avoid watering and fertilizing Crocus sativus. It prefers very low moisture and fertility.