How to plant Teruel saffron step by step

José Ramón Plumed planting saffron

A Practical Guide to Growing Saffron in Your Garden in Spain

Teruel saffron is one of the most prized in Spain for its aroma, color, and potency. Thanks to the continental climate of areas like Jiloca and Monreal del Campo, this spice achieves exceptional quality.

But did you know you can also grow it in your own garden?

In this guide, we explain how to plant Teruel saffron step by step using organic bulbs adapted to the Spanish climate.

Company field: Jiloca saffron

Can you plant saffron in a home garden?

Yes. Saffron is a perfect crop for:

  • Family gardens
  • Well-drained gardens
  • Small plots of land
  • Organic farming

It doesn't require large areas or machinery. With good planning, any gardening enthusiast in Spain can grow it.

When to Plant Saffron in Spain

The ideal planting time is:

  • From late June to September
  • With dry soil and warm temperatures

In areas like Aragon, Castilla-La Mancha, or the interior of the Iberian Peninsula, July and August are usually the optimal months.

José cleaning bulbs

Which Bulbs to Choose: Key to Success

The crop yield depends directly on the quality of the bulb.

For home gardens, we recommend:

  • Certified organic bulbs
  • From traditional cultivation in Teruel
  • Medium or large size
  • Adapted to the continental climate

Here you can buy organic saffron bulbs from Teruel

The bulbs from Azafranes Jiloca, a company located in Monreal del Campo (Teruel), are selected to offer good flowering and natural propagation.

How to Plant Saffron Step by Step

1️⃣ Prepare the soil

  • Loose, well-drained soil
  • Avoid areas where water accumulates
  • Saffron doesn't need very fertile soil

Saffron prefers light, calcareous soils, which are very common in much of Spain.

2️⃣ Depth and spacing

  • Depth: 12–15 cm
  • Spacing between bulbs: 10–15 cm
  • Distance between rows: 20–30 cm

Planting too shallow reduces protection against the cold.

3️⃣ Position the bulb correctly

  • Point upwards
  • Cover without compacting too much
  • Do not water after planting (except in cases of extreme drought)

Excess water is saffron's main enemy.

Cartoon of José in the saffron field

How many bulbs do I need for my garden?

For a home garden:

  • 100 bulbs → small production for family consumption
  • 500 bulbs → more stable production
  • 1,000 bulbs → advanced hobbyist project

The bulbs multiply each year, so the planting grows progressively.

When does saffron bloom?

Blooming occurs in autumn:

  • October – November

The purple flowers appear every morning. Harvesting should be done the same day, and the stigmas removed immediately.

Advantages of using organic bulbs from Teruel

Saffron bulbs in a plot

Choosing organic bulbs of local origin offers:

✔ Better climate adaptation

✔ Higher flowering rate

✔ More stable production

✔ Cultivation without chemical treatments

The organic saffron bulbs from Teruel by Azafranes Jiloca come from fields in Jiloca, one of the historical saffron-growing areas in Spain.

See available bulbs here:

Organic bulb stock at AragonGourmet

Saffron bulbs in a box

Is it profitable to grow saffron at home?

For a private garden, the goal is usually:

  • Personal consumption
  • Gourmet gifts
  • Reviving agricultural traditions

Saffron is valuable, but the greatest benefit is enjoying a pure spice grown by you.

Planting Teruel saffron in your garden in Spain is easier than it seems. You just need good drainage, quality organic bulbs, and to respect the planting schedule.

The first step is choosing the right bulb.

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