- 1). Plant the saffron bulbs in fall when soils have warmed up enough to work them. Use a tiller to break up clods and aerate the soil to a depth of 10 to 12 inches. Incorporate 3 to 5 inches of compost at the same time. This will add nutrients, increase tilth and help conserve moisture.
- 2). Use a rake to make a raised bed of at least 6 inches. It can be any length and width. The raised bed will ensure good drainage. This is essential so the bulbs don't rot. Make holes 6 inches apart that are 3 inches deep.
- 3). Set the bulbs in the holes with the pointed side up to the sky. Fill in the holes and compress the soil. Water them weekly unless your zone receives at least 1.5 inches per week. If your zone receives the required amount of water you will not need to give supplemental irrigation.
- 4). Fertilize in spring with a good bulb fertilizer following the amount recommended by the manufacturer.
- 5). Harvest the stigma in mid to late fall when the flowers are almost spent. Cut them out carefully with scissors. Bring the stigma indoors to a warm room and place them on paper towels to dry for three to five days. You can also use them fresh.
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