Telangana Horticultural University scientists mull saffron cultivation using aeroponics, aiming to replicate Kashmir’s climate in a controlled facility. The project seeks to make Telangana a new hub for saffron production and create opportunities for youth in modern horticulture

Hyderabad: Far from the misty meadows of Kashmir Valley, where saffron is traditionally cultivated, a silent revolution is taking shape in Telangana. Scientists from Sri Konda Laxman Telangana Horticultural University have teamed up to grow saffron without soil — using modern, non-traditional farming methods — right here in the State.

Saffron, also known as ‘red gold’ for its vibrant hue, high value, and medicinal properties, has long been cultivated in Kashmir’s cool climate, especially in areas like Pampore. But now, thanks to a modern technique called aeroponics — where plants are grown using nutrient-enriched mist — the researchers are preparing to cultivate saffron under controlled indoor conditions.

In the last week of June, a team of scientists will begin replicating the cool weather conditions of Kashmir inside a state-of-the-art, 600 sq ft facility at the College of Horticulture in Wanaparthy district. The facility will feature vertical racks, LED grow lights, and a full aeroponic system.

Along with temperature, humidity, and ventilation controls, the facility will be equipped with a real-time monitoring mechanism. By mid-July, saffron corms weighing 7 grams and above — sourced from Pampore — will be planted. These will be nurtured using a carefully timed misting system to induce flowering.

The process involves a 90-100-day “dark phase” with controlled temperatures, followed by a “light phase” where light is introduced to stimulate flowering. Flowering is expected to begin around October-November, after which the flowers will be harvested and their stigmas separated. The saffron is then dried at temperatures below 55 degrees Celsius.

“The idea is to introduce saffron cultivation from Kashmir to Telangana. Unlike the traditional method, which is labour-intensive, this requires less manpower and is free from pests and rodents since it takes place indoors. Currently, Kashmir is the second-largest exporter of saffron in the world after Iran. With successful implementation, we aim to make Telangana a new hub for saffron production and global export,” said Dr Pidigam Saidaiah, principal investigator and associate dean of Telangana Horticultural University, speaking to ‘Read’.

The project is being funded by the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) and also aims to standardise aeroponics techniques for saffron cultivation.

“After successful cultivation, we will develop standard operating procedures (SOPs) for indoor saffron production. Nowadays, youth are turning toward the software industry. We want to train them in saffron cultivation, which has high market value. Horticulture has vast scope for young entrepreneurs,” said Prof D Raji Reddy, Vice Chancellor of the Telangana Horticultural University.