Where to Find High Quality Crocus Sativus Seeds for Sale

Crocus sativus, commonly known as saffron crocus, is a species of flowering plant that produces the highly-prized saffron spice The crimson stigmas of the saffron crocus flowers are harvested and dried to make saffron, which is the world’s most expensive spice by weight As such, saffron crocus bulbs and seeds are highly sought after by home gardeners and specialty growers looking to produce their own saffron. However, finding reputable sources to purchase high quality crocus sativus seeds and bulbs can be challenging.

In this article we’ll explore where to find crocus sativus seeds and bulbs for sale from trusted suppliers what to look for when buying saffron crocus planting stock, planting and growing tips, and the benefits of growing your own saffron at home.

Where to Buy Crocus Sativus Seeds and Bulbs

When searching for crocus sativus seeds or bulbs to grow your own saffron, it’s important to source from reputable suppliers. Some key things to look for include

• Specialty seed companies – Companies that focus specifically on herb, flower, vegetable, and rare seeds often have the highest quality crocus sativus seed. Look for companies with strong reputations in the seed industry.

• High percent germination rates – Quality crocus sativus seed should have germination rates of at least 80%. This information should be clearly stated.

• Organic options – Look for organic certifications to ensure minimal or no chemical treatments.

• Bulb size – When buying bulbs, larger bulbs around 2.5 cm in diameter produce more flowers and stigmas.

• Reviews – Customer reviews can provide valuable insight into people’s experiences with the viability and vigor of purchased seeds or bulbs.

Some excellent sources to purchase crocus sativus seeds and bulbs include:

• RareSeeds.com – Specialty seed company offering crocus sativus bulbs and seeds with 85% germination rate. All non-treated.

• Renee’s Garden – Organic crocus sativus bulbs available. Renee’s has a long-standing reputation for premium seeds and bulbs.

• Etsy Growers – Many Etsy shops sell seeds and bulbs, often specializing in saffron crocus. Check shop reviews.

• eBay Growers – Similar to Etsy, independent eBay sellers often sell crocus sativus stock. Compare seller ratings.

When sourcing crocus sativus seeds or bulbs, always verify the supplier’s reputation, seed viability statistics, and growing practices before purchasing. This helps ensure you receive high quality planting stock for successfully growing your own saffron flowers.

What to Look for When Buying Crocus Sativus Seeds and Bulbs

To maximize your chances of saffron crocus growing success, here are some key things to look for when buying seeds and bulbs:

• Reputable supplier – Source from a trusted seller with expertise in crocus sativus. Avoid big box store bulbs of questionable origin.

• Certified disease-free – Healthy, vigorous seeds and bulbs are key. Crocus can carry disease so certification is ideal.

• Fresh seeds – Check the seed pack for harvest date and optimal planting timeframe. Fresher seeds have higher viability.

• Mature bulbs – Look for bulbs 2.5 cm or larger in diameter with no signs of damage or mold.

• Organic – Certified organic bulbs have not undergone chemical treatments that could impact growth.

• Species name – Packets and listings should clearly state the species as Crocus sativus, not just generic “Saffron Crocus.”

• Third party testing – Independent germination testing provides proof of seed viability rates.

When buying crocus sativus seeds and bulbs, scrutinize the above factors to ensure you get the highest quality planting stock. Taking the time to source from reputable suppliers helps guarantee thriving, robust flowers and the maximum saffron yield.

Tips for Planting and Growing Crocus Sativus

Once you’ve sourced high quality crocus sativus seeds or bulbs, proper planting and growing techniques are key to success. Here are some top tips:

• Plant in fall – Saffron crocus is planted in the fall. The optimal planting window is 6-8 weeks before first frost.

• Well-drained soil – Crocus prefer sandy, well-draining soil. Enrich soil with compost or well-rotted manure before planting.

• Full sun – Plant corms or bulbs in full sun, ideally in raised beds for improved drainage.

• Planting depth – Plant bulbs or corms about 4-6 inches deep and 4 inches apart. Seeds are planted 1 inch deep.

• Irrigation – Water well after planting and provide regular water during the summer heat. But avoid waterlogged soil.

• Fertilizer – Using bone meal or organic fertilizer when planting can support growth.

• Weed control – Mulch around bulbs and keep beds weed-free to prevent competition.

• Let foliage die back – After flowering, let foliage completely die back before removing to allow bulb regeneration.

Follow these tips carefully for successful establishment and flowering of your crocus sativus crop. Growing conditions significantly impact yields of the valuable saffron spice.

Benefits of Growing Your Own Saffron

Beyond having your own supply of the world’s most expensive spice, there are many benefits to growing crocus sativus at home including:

• Flavor and fragrance – Fresh homemade saffron has exceptional flavor, aroma, and color for culinary use.

• Economical – Growing your own saffron is far cheaper than buying retail. Approximately 50,000 flowers are needed to produce one pound of saffron.

• Chemical-free – Homegrown saffron can be produced organically without pesticides.

• Supplemental income – With enough crocus planted, excess saffron can be sold to offset costs.

• Ornamental display – The lilac-hued blooms of crocus sativus make a beautiful flower bed addition.

The stunning blooms and precious saffron spice of Crocus sativus are worth the effort of sourcing high quality seeds or bulbs and tending plants attentively. With a reputable supplier, optimal growing conditions, and proper care, you can enjoy growing your own saffron at home.

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