Evaluation of Saffron Ecotypes for Stigma Yield and Yield Components Using Different Maternal Corm Weights

Several saffron ecotypes (Mashhad, Torbat-Jam, Torbat-Haydarieh, Gonabad, Birjand, Ghaen) were evaluated in Urmia for stigma yield and yield components using different maternal corm weights (6, 8, 10, 12 g) in 2013 cropping year. The experiment was arranged as factorial based on randomized complete block design. Analysis of variance showed that there were significant differences among saffron ecotypes and maternal corm weights with respect to all studied agronomical traits. However, there was no interaction between ecotypes and corm weights for the majority of these characters. Torbat-Haydarieh and Mashhad ecotypes, and Gonabad and Ghaen ecotypes had the highest and lowest saffron yield in the Urmia condition, respectively. The yield and yield components of saffron improved when the greater maternal corm weight was used. There were positive relationships between saffron yield and all its components. Based on the stepwise regression analysis, dried stigma weight, stigma length, fresh flower weight, dry leaf weight and leaf length were the main components of saffron yield. We can conclude that maternal corm weight has a very important role in saffron performance. Furthermore, in order to establish a new saffron cultivation, it seems essential to take into account the climate condition of areas from which the corms were selected.