Investigating the possibility of saffron growth and development (Crocus sativus) in Shahr-e Rey climatic conditions

Saffron (Crocus sativus L.), widely recognized as red gold, is produced from dried stigmas of Crocus sativus L. plant. The cultivation and production of saffron have an ancient history in Iran. Over the past two decades, various experiments have been conducted on the cultivation of saffron in different regions of Iran including Karaj, Birjand, and Shahrekord. The best saffron corms in terms of yield and quality are found in Iranian saffron masses. Over 500 kg of the best saffron corms were used in order to investigate their growth and development possibilities. This study was done for the first time using the common method during 2009-2010, i.e. dry farming, in the research farm of Islamic Azad University in Shahr-e Rey. The experiment was carried out in split plot form, following a randomized complete block design, with tree replications. The treatments included four planting dates as the main factor and two cultivars (Ghaen and Esfahan) as the secondary factor. The yield, quality, and growth indices (Leaf Area Index, Total Dry Matter, Crop Growth Rate, and Net Assimilation Rate) of saffron were determined. The results indicated that the planting dates did not significantly influence any of yield traits. In addition, the results of mean comparisons revealed that Esfahan cultivar was better regarding all traits in comparison to Ghaen cultivar and thus demonstrated a better compatibility with Shahr-e Rey district. Accordingly, there is a possibility to grow saffron in Shahr-e Rey considering its limited water consumption and the economic justification.