Crocus Sativus | Grow Your Own Saffron

Plant bulbs in naturalistic drifts 10-15cm (4-6in) deep from August to October in a hot, sunny spot. Where the bulbs are planted in grass do not cut the lawn until after the leaves have died back. Saffron crocus can only be propagated by dividing the corms. After 3 to 4 years dig up the corms, divide and replant in fresh soil. Please note that as these autumn flowering crocus have an incredibly short shelf-life, it is quite common to see them already flowering when they are delivered. This will not have an adverse effect on the long-term health and vigour, and the ones that have not started to flower should be planted out as normal, taking care not to damage any emerging shoots. Those that have started to flower should be taken out of the bag and placed on a sunny windowsill where you can enjoy the show. As soon as the flowers have faded (and before the leaves develop) these too can be planted out.