Monday, March 10, 2025
Saudi researchers develop new saffron-growing methods that produce flowers in 10 days
Using vertical farming systems, artificial lighting, and climate control systems, researchers at KACST (King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology) in Saudi Arabia have developed innovative technologies that can grow saffron and produce its flowers in just 10 days. Trending: Overtime calculation in Saudi Arabia
This is in complete opposition to the traditional 4 to 6 week farming process. Even though the Kingdom's climate is usually severe, the team was able to develop a range of wavelengths released by artificial lighting that not only accelerated the growth of saffron flower production but also established a perfect habitat for growth.
During the past decade, the Kingdom's saffron imports totaled 497 tons of dry saffron, with a total estimated value of $175 million, demonstrating its high economic value and importance. The crop is predicted to reach $756 million by 2030, representing a high growth rate of 8.6 percent during the forecast period (2022–2030).
Expanding beyond saffron cultivation, these systems can improve agricultural productivity and crop quality while determining the optimal conditions for plant growth.
This opens new possibilities for the development of the agricultural sector, particularly in light of the recent rise in the establishment of vertical farms to meet local market demands. Recommend: Saudi Health Ministry warns against tampering with Sick Leave and specifies its penalties
The global controlled agricultural systems market was $74.4 billion in 2022 and is expected to reach $377.6 billion by 2032, growing at an annual rate of 18.13%.
This accomplishment is part of the National Laboratory's ongoing efforts to improve agricultural practices, which in turn improve environmental sustainability and local production efficiency.
The ultimate goal is to fulfill the Kingdom's Vision 2030 and national goals for R&D and innovation by creating cutting-edge production technologies that address basic human needs, help with food security, and eventually eliminate the need to import large quantities of saffron.
Achieving environmental and economic sustainability is the goal of this project. To achieve this, we will be inventing new methods of growing saffron vines and localizing vertical farming techniques to speed up agricultural growth. See Also: Smart luggage storage at Makkah Grand Mosque
By doing so, we will increase efficiency, decrease costs, and boost productivity in small-scale agricultural systems that rely on vertical orientation rather than horizontal orientation.
Reducing saffron imports, localizing production, reducing carbon emissions, and improving the efficiency of resource use of energy and water are some of the economic and environmental benefits provided by the vertical farming project, which relies on artificial lighting systems, climate control systems, and wavelengths in controlled environments. Join Saudi Expatriates channel on Telegram
Saudi researchers develop new saffron-growing methods that produce flowers in 10 days
