develop orange yellow crocus , also known as Crocus sativus , from seed is not a feasible option . Unlike many other crocus varieties , saffron crocus is a sterile triploid , which means it can not reproduce through the common process of seed production . Instead , saffron crocus must be disseminate vegetatively using corm , which are bulb - similar structures that grow underground .
The unfitness of saffron crocus to produce viable ejaculate is due to its triploid nature . Triploid plants have three sets of chromosomes alternatively of the common two , which often results in asepsis . This means that the pollen produced by saffron crocus flowers is not able of fertilizing the ovule to produce feasible seed .
While this may seem like a limit , it actually has some vantage when it come to saffron production . Since saffron crocus does not produce seeds , all of its energy is directed towards bulb and efflorescence production . This results in larger and more abundant flowers , which is where the highly prized saffron spice is derive from .
To spread saffron crocus , one must rely on the corms . Corms are underground store harmonium that resemble bulbs . They are responsible for storing energy and nutrients for the works ’s ontogeny and efflorescence . When it come to saffron crocus , the corms are the samara to multiplying the plants .
Propagation of saffron crocus can be done by cautiously separating the small cormlets that imprint around the main corm . These cormlets can be softly detached and planted individually , allowing them to develop into new saffron crocus plants . It is important to manage the corm and cormlets with upkeep to head off damaging them .
Another method acting of saffron crocus propagation is through division . This involves delve up the clumps of saffron crocus bulb and separating them into little division . Each section should have a healthy parcel of the corm impound . These divided sections can then be replanted to establish Modern saffron crocus flora .
It is worth observe that saffron crocus can take a few years to get to maturity and produce flowers . It is a process that requires patience and deliberate cultivation . However , once constitute , saffron crocus can provide a beautiful display of purple flowers and the highly prized Crocus sativus spice .
In my personal experience , I have successfully propagated saffron crocus using both corm division and separating cormlets . It is a rewarding process to see the plant multiply and eventually bloom in the fall . The soft flower and vibrant carmine stigmas are a good deal to behold and make all the effort worthwhile .
Saffron crocus can not be rise from seeded player due to its sterile triploid nature . rather , propagation is achieved through the separation of cormlets or section of chunk . While it may take clock time for the plant to suppurate and produce blossom , the end answer of having your own saffron harvest can be genuinely rewarding .
Caroline Bates
