Product Review

The rare and expensive spice, Saffron, also known as "Red Gold", only comes from the Saffron Crocus. These crocus can grow nearly anywhere in the world, but the condition of the soil they are planted in is even more important than the climate in which they are grown. Since Saffron Crocus bloom in the FALL, the corms should be planted immediately upon receipt. Saffron Crocus prefer full sun and well-draining soil. If planting in clay or otherwise heavy soil, it must be amended by adding sand, peat or compost.
Saffron corms can be planted either directly into the ground, or into pots or containers. Plant the corms, pointed side up, about 3"-4" deep, and about 3"-4" apart. WATER WELL after planting, and keep your crocus watered throughout the fall and in the spring. Flowers will appear about 6-8 weeks after planting, and the foliage - long slender grass-like leaves - will appear along with or shortly after the flowers. The foliage will stay green throughout the winter and into the spring, and then turn yellow and die back for the summer.
For Saffron Crocus to do well, it is VERY important that the corms be allowed to dry out completely during the summer. Therefore, they should not be planted in an area that receives regular summer watering or rainfall. Some people find that their Saffron Crocuses do best when planted under eaves, or an overhang. This way, the rain does not reach them during the summer when the corms should be dry, and when consistent (but not too much) water is needed in the fall & spring, they can be watered by hand.
Saffron crocus multiply readily under the right conditions - 1 bulb will turn into a cluster of 5 or 6 in just 3 years. They can be divided about every 5 years, in early summer, immediately after the corms go dormant. The extra corms can be shared with family and friends, or simply spaced out and replanted, thereby making a bigger saffron patch, which will then produce more of that wonderful spice :-)