Evaluation of local and scientific knowledge in saffron agronomy (Case study: Sarayan)

The linkage between results of research studies and local knowledge of saffron cultivation is a useful method for decreasing saffron gap yield. Therefore، in this research the traditional knowledge of saffron cultivation was studied by interview and completing questionnaires in Sarayan، Iran during year of 2013. Results showed that contrary to the results of scientific research، saffron mostly was planted in 6 September to 6 October (73%) by local farmers. The most farmers have believed that the planting of saffron in a loamy soil (84%)، use of corm with more than 8 g (56%)، planting density of 95-100 corms. m-2 (86%)، planting depth of 20 cm (70%) and planting pattern of 20×20 cm are useful agronomical methods for saffron production. For most of these indices a good relationship was observed between indigenous and scientific knowledge، although more attention should be paid to corm size، planting method and density and its relation with the farm exploitation year’s number. Moreover، the most saffron producer said that the use of manure (42%) or manure + chemical fertilizers (56%)، five irrigations during saffron growth (45%)، crust-breaking after first irrigation (100%) and weeds control (100%) are suitable ways in saffron cultivation. It seems that the more use of manure and increasing irrigation times especially in years with low rainfall are suitable options for yield improvement. Therewith، most interviewed farmers know unsuitable summer irrigation، low rainfall during winter and hot summers for saffron flowering. Overall، some conflicts observed between local and scientific methods of saffron cultivation therefore، use of promotion ways and more scientific researchs considering traditional views are essential.