Crocus Sativus - 40 Bulbs - Thompson & Morgan
Not Available
Not Available
Currently unavailable
Currently out of stock
This product is not available at the moment. Check back later or explore other options below.
Product Information
Full details
The Thompson & Morgan Crocus Sativus bulbs are ideal for gardeners and home cooks looking to enhance their outdoor space with vibrant autumn blooms while harvesting their own high-quality saffron. These bulbs are easy to cultivate in sunny, well-draining soil, providing a dual benefit of aesthetic appeal and culinary utility. Potential growers should note that they require specific soil conditions to thrive and provide a successful harvest, meaning they may not be suitable for heavy, waterlogged clay environments.
All features
| Brand | Thompson & Morgan |
|---|
Extended Product Information
FAQs
When is the best time to plant Crocus Sativus?
These bulbs should be planted in late summer, ideally by late August or early September, to ensure they bloom in the autumn.
Can I grow these in pots?
Yes, they grow very well in pots as long as you use a well-draining compost mix with added grit and ensure the container has drainage holes.
How many flowers do I need to get a meaningful amount of saffron?
Saffron is very concentrated; you typically need several dozen flowers to produce a small quantity of dried spice.
Do I need to dig the bulbs up every year?
Crocus Sativus can be left in the ground for several years, though they may benefit from being lifted and divided every 3 to 4 years to prevent overcrowding.
Are these bulbs hardy?
They are generally hardy in most temperate climates, but they prioritize warm, dry summers and cool, moist autumns.
Troubleshooting
Bulbs failing to sprout in autumn.
Check soil drainage; waterlogged soil often causes bulb rot during the dormant summer phase.
Poor flower production or low stigma yield.
Ensure the site receives at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight per day.
Foliage yellowing prematurely.
Adjust watering practices; ensure soil is damp but not boggy, and avoid overhead watering that splashes the foliage.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Provides a rare opportunity to grow your own valuable saffron spice at home.
- Features beautiful, striking purple flowers that enhance autumn garden aesthetics.
- Suitable for both beginner gardeners and experienced horticulturalists.
- Flexible planting options ranging from open borders to decorative containers.
Cons
- Requires well-drained, gritty soil; will struggle in heavy or waterlogged earth.
- Needs full sun exposure to bloom and produce high-quality stigma.
- Harvesting the saffron spice is a manual, labor-intensive process.
Setup, Compatibility & Care
For optimal results, plant the bulbs approximately 10cm deep in soil that has been amended with grit or sand to ensure excellent drainage. Space each bulb roughly 10cm apart to allow for airflow and consistent development. While these plants are resilient, they do not tolerate 'wet feet'; if planting in pots, ensure the containers have adequate drainage holes and use a loam-based potting mix combined with horticultural grit. During the active growth season, keep the soil moderately moist but never saturated. Once the foliage dies back after the flowering period, allow the area to remain relatively dry to ensure the bulbs do not rot while dormant.