When to Plant Saffron in Zone 5
In USDA zone 5a, plant outdoors December 2 to January 21, and expect your first harvest around January 21. (5a shown here — see 5a and 5b dates separately below.)
Saffron planting calendar for USDA Zone 5a
Average last spring frost
May 5
Average first fall frost
October 1
Direct sow
Dec 2
Projected first harvest
Jan 21
Saffron is ready to harvest in about 50 days, needing roughly 149 frost-free days in zone 5a.
Saffron planting calendar for USDA Zone 5b
Average last spring frost
April 30
Average first fall frost
October 5
Direct sow
Nov 27
Projected first harvest
Jan 16
Saffron is ready to harvest in about 50 days, needing roughly 158 frost-free days in zone 5b.
Not sure whether you're in 5a or 5b? Set your ZIP in HomeSown for dates tuned to your exact location.
Varieties to grow
1 variety of saffron in the HomeSown library. Tap any for its full grow guide.
🌱 Grow saffron with a calendar built for your exact yard
HomeSown turns your ZIP code into a personalized planting calendar, watering reminders, and pest help. Free to start.
Start your free garden →