Recently, new growing systems were used including vertical and hydroponic saffron (Crocus sativus L.) farming to improve saffron yield. This type of farming is ideal for those who want to grow saffron at uncommon locations or increase yield in a smaller space compared to traditional soil farming due to unsuitable natural environmental conditions like the case in KSA.
Several environmental parameters may affect flower induction in saffron. Among these, temperature plays a crucial role (Molina et al., 2005).
According to the literatures, flower induction requires an incubation of the corms at high temperature (°27-23C), followed by a period of exposure at moderately low temperature (°17C) for flower emergence.
The aim of this study was to evaluate saffron production using two new intensive growing systems (vertical and hydroponic saffron farming) in comparison with traditional soil cultivation under controlled environmental conditions.