Effects of Inorganic and Foliar Fertilizers on Antioxidant Capacity and Flower Yield of Saffron (Crocus sativus L.)

Abstract

Saffron ( Crocus sativus L., Iridaceae) is a highly valued species in the food, medicinal, and nutraceutical industries as a coloring, flavoring, and therapeutic agent. Its productivity and flower production vary depending on different factors, including fertilizer treatment. This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of inorganic (NK) fertilizer combined with organic matter in different plant densities as well as the influence of split foliar fertilizer application on flower yield of saffron. The performance of saffron plants revealed that the combined application of inorganic fertilizer NK and vegetal organic matter (1%) was generally better than the effect of foliar treatment. Treatment with split foliar fertilizers at the recommended optimal concentration prolonged the flowering period of saffron plants.