Published May 27, 2023
Saffron is obtained from the Crocus Sativus flower. It demands a Mediterranean climate, cool climate and loamy, sandy soil. The flower blooms in the fall and is sold expensively.
Corms are planted 8-10 cm under soil. It demands consistent watering and fertilizers. The harvesting is done between mid to late spring and is hand-picked.
Lacha or Mongra Saffron, Aquil Saffron and Spanish & Creme Saffron are the main varieties of Saffron. While the Kashmiri Saffron is the most expensively sold.
1kg of pure Kashmiri saffron is retailed for about ₹ 3,00,000. It is used in medicines, dyes, cosmetics and the tobacco industry.
Locally known as Zafran/ Kesar or Kong. It is grown in the Indian state of Jammu & Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh.
Kashmiri farmers from Shaar-i-Shalli village are now adopting new growing techniques like indoor saffron cultivation. It grows fine yield of the best quality.