As Turkish saffron differs in hardness, colour and aroma compared to other countries, it was officially registered withing the studies carried at the end of 2014. Saffron, which takes the title of “national plant”, is produced by 20 farmers in an area of 40 decares in the historical district named Safranbolu.
Saffron plants started to be cultivated in August and reach 15-30 centimetres in length by opening purple-coloured flowers in October-November. Only half a kilogram of saffron can be obtained from 80 thousand flowers. Saffron, which can dye liquids up to 100 thousand times of its weight in yellow, is mentioned as “the most expensive plant in the world” because it finds buyers for ₺40 thousand per kilogram.
‘’It has been a productive year in saffron production.’’
Fuat Gurel, the Karabuk Governor noted that saffron production is very important for Safranbolu and contributes to its economy. Expressing that the quality of Safranbolu saffron is more prominent than other regions and countries, Gurel pointed out that the state provides all kinds of support to saffron producers.
Underlining that their aim is to increase production without impairing the quality, Gurel said:
‘’Saffron production has become important especially in recent years. In our district, it contributes to the economy in terms of both monetary input and attracting tourists. We produce saffron in an area of 40 decares by 20 farmers in 7 villages. It has been a productive year in production. A production of around 26 kilograms has been achieved. Our aim is to increase the production. Therefore, we are implementing projects under the leadership of the Provincial Directorate of Agriculture and Forestry.’’
‘’ Many visitors come to see the saffron.’’
Ismail Yilmaz, a saffron producer stated that saffron is used, especially in cooking. Emphasizing that saffron is collected from the flowers in October and November, Yilmaz stated that onions were planted every 3 years. Expressing that Safranbolu saffron is preferred because it is different and has higher quality compared to others.
Mentioning that the kilogram of a saffron has buyers at approximately ₺40 thousand, Yilmaz continued as follows:
‘’I produced 20 kilograms of product this year. This was our goal and we reached it. Since saffron is an autumn herb, many guests come to the fields these months. There are many who want to see the saffron field to experience the atmosphere, smell and collect flowers.’’
source: AA / translated by Melisa Karayusufoglu