Spices and Condiments (1+1)

Climate

Climate
Saffron is a temperate season crop and it thrives well in cold regions. It can tolerate frost and snowfall easily; however, during October-November the cultivated areas should be free from snowfall. In the Kashmir valley, saffron thrives well in a sub-temperate climate at an elevation ranging from 1500-2400 m. Sunny days during flowering are favourable for a good yield. An annual rainfall of 300 to 400 mm and snow during the winter are suitable for its commercial cultivation. Spring rains are favourable for the promotion of new corms, while a second spell of rains at the end of summer or at the beginning of autumn encourages profuse flowering. The number of flowers and time of blooming are dependent on the temperature prevalent in spring and autumn, and also upon the amount of rainfall. A warm spring and long autumn are conducive to early flowering. An optimum day temperature of 15 to 20°C is required during the flowering period with an optimum night temperature of 6 to 8°C.

Climate Soil
It can be grown on different types of soils ranging from sandy loam to clay loam. However, saffron prefers well-drained soil. In water-logged soils, the corms rot and so a proper drainage system is an important requirement for this crop. A medium-light soil, neutral to slightly alkaline, is suited for its cultivation. The clay-loam soil of the Kare area of the Kashmir valley, locally known as grut, is most suited for its successful cultivation.

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