As we head into fall, it is a time of transition in the garden. The cooler nights bring some reprieve for the plants. We will begin to see a flush of flowers from the dahlias and ornamental grasses that put on quite a show this time of year. We also notice cute little fall crocus popping up all around. Fall crocus are very similar to their spring counterparts. They just bloom at a different time of year. The interesting thing about fall crocus is that you can plant them in late summer/early fall, and they will bloom shortly afterwards. Probably the most well-known fall blooming crocus is the saffron crocus.
The saffron crocus (Crocus sativus) is much more than a striking flower; it is a botanical marvel and a culinary treasure. Saffron crocus is known for its vibrant purple blooms and produces the coveted spice saffron, which is a staple in kitchens around the world and a symbol of luxury and exoticism. This fall blooming plant has flowers that are only about three to five inches in height. The flowers are a vivid purple with bright orange-red stigmas. These stigmas are the source of saffron. Each flower produces three long, thread-like stigmas, which are hand harvested and dried to create the spice known as saffron. The delicate nature of this process contributes to the high price of saffron. It requires around 50,000 flowers to yield one pound of dried saffron.
Saffron has been prized for centuries not just for its unique flavor and aroma but also for its vivid yellow color, which it imparts to dishes. It is a key ingredient in many traditional dishes, including risottos, paellas, and Persian pilafs. Saffron’s flavor is often described as subtle, earthy and slightly sweet, and it has a distinct aroma that enhances both savory and sweet dishes. Saffron has also been used for its potential health benefits, including its antioxidant properties and its role in improving mood and digestion. Additionally, saffron has been employed in dyeing fabrics and as a component in various cosmetics and perfumes.
Growing saffron crocus in this area is a relatively easy thing to do. Like most bulbs, they prefer well-drained soil. They should be planted from late August through September to bloom in November. They prefer a sunny location and need minimal water, making them relatively low maintenance once established. Starting with around ten saffron crocus bulbs will give the home gardener enough saffron to use in a few extraordinary dishes. When harvesting the saffron, it is best to gather the stamens mid-morning on a sunny day when the flowers are fully open. Dry and store the stigmas in an airtight container to use when needed.
This time of the year signals the beginning of the fall planting season. It is an ideal time to add many bulbs and perennials to your garden. In addition to saffron crocus, there are many other fall blooming crocus and pest-resistant colchicums that can be planted in late summer/early fall. These bulbs are the closest thing there is to instant gratification in the bulb world as they only take weeks to come into bloom. Now is also a great time to prepare for spring planting. Cleaning up your garden beds and amending the soil will set you up for a successful planting season. Spring blooming bulbs want to be planted a bit later than the fall blooming crocus and colchicums. Spring bloomers, like daffodils, tulips, and hyacinths, like to go into the ground when the soil is cool. The cool soil promotes root growth and gets them going for the season ahead. Locally, the best time to plant these bulbs is after the first killing frost in November.
Whether you are a novice or experienced gardener, adding bulbs and perennials to your garden can provide year-round color with minimal effort. Enjoy winter flowers of snowdrops and Lenten roses, fragrant hyacinths and daffodils in the spring, a summer burst of lilies, dahlias, gladiolus, and fall’s crocus and colchicums. Your gardening skills will surely impress your neighbors and sharing your saffron-infused dishes will delight family and friends!