Crocus Sativus Bulbs

Description

• Crocus sativus originates as a bulb or corm that blooms into plants that can grow to 10 inches in height and look similar to lilies. Crocus sativus flowers are violet or blue and around 2 inches in length. Once dried, the stigmas are a distinctive orange-yellow color.

Planting

• Plant crocus sativa bulbs in October or November in a sunny spot 4 to 6 inches down in sandy or loamy soil with good drainage. Make sure the point on the bottom faces up, because this is where the crocus will emerge.

Fertilizing

• Immediately after planting, fertilize crocus with a soluble 5-10-5 or 12-12-12 fertilizer dissolved in water. Avoid over-fertilizing crocus; if you fertilize them at the time of planting, you should not have to fertilize again until the next spring, once they begin to come up.

Care

• If crocus sativa begin to emerge and many are growing in one spot, dig up the plants and move them 4 to 6 inches apart. Crocus sativus needs consistently moist soil; if soil is dry 1 inch down, it is time to water. Remove any blooms once they begin to wither.

Harvesting and Storage

• If you are growing crocus sativa in order to harvest your own saffron, pluck the triple stigmas from inside the flower's center as soon as the crocus opens and begins to bloom. Crocus sativa will only flower for 15 days, so it is important to pick the stigmas as soon as flowers open. Dry the stigmas in the sun or in a warm, dry place in your home. Once it has dried completely, store it in tightly sealed jars or other containers, away from light.