Growing saffron, the world’s most expensive spice, is no longer limited to the fields of Kashmir. With innovative aeroponic techniques, Gaurav Sabharwal, a farmer from Solan, Himachal Pradesh, has shown that saffron can be grown in controlled indoor environments. Here’s a step-by-step guide inspired by his successful saffron venture, Shoolini Enterprise.
1. Start with a small, controlled space
Traditional saffron farming demands large fields in cold regions like Kashmir, but Gaurav proved it’s possible in smaller areas using aeroponics.
Gaurav says, “I began with just 300 square feet. It’s enough to grow a decent amount of saffron if you maintain the right environment. You don’t need acres of land, just a setup where you can control temperature and humidity.”
2. Set the right temperature and humidity
Saffron thrives between 10°C and 20°C. Recreating these conditions indoors simulates Kashmir’s environment.
He explains, “Aeroponics lets us control everything — light, humidity, even CO₂ levels. We mimic Kashmir’s temperatures and use misting to nourish the plants. It’s like giving them everything they need without soil or standing water.”
3. Use high-quality saffron bulbs (corms)
Healthy corms are key to a good yield. Gaurav advises farmers never to compromise on the quality of bulbs. “Good quality saffron bulbs are essential for a successful harvest,” he adds. Aeroponics also offers the advantage of compact planting. Unlike traditional farming, where more space is required between bulbs, this method allows them to be placed closer together, saving space without compromising quality.
4. Prepare the right soil substitute
While aeroponics doesn’t use traditional soil, balancing pH and nutrients is crucial.
He shares, “We couldn’t use Kashmiri soil, so we adapted. We sifted garden soil and adjusted its pH to 6.5-7. It’s all about matching the right conditions. The soil isn’t the problem — it’s how you prepare it.”
5. Minimise labour but master harvesting
Saffron farming requires less labour than crops like apples or tomatoes, but harvesting is delicate.
It’s not labour-intensive, but harvesting is everything. “You have to pluck the red threads, the stigmas from each flower by hand,” he notes. “It takes patience. But once you get the hang of it, it’s easy compared to running an apple orchard.”
6. Invest wisely in equipment
Gaurav spent Rs 10 lakh setting up his farm, funded by a government start-up loan. He didn’t go big straight away. “I wish I’d started smaller,” he says, as aeroponics requires only basic equipment like misting nozzles, timers, and temperature monitors. It can always be scaled up after the first harvest, notes Gaurav.
7. Tap into a lucrative market
India imports most of its saffron due to low domestic supply, making this a profitable venture.
He says, “Our first harvest sold out fast. There’s a massive demand, and not enough local supply. That’s why I also train others. We buy their produce back, helping more farmers enter the market.”
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