Effects of Corm Dipping in Salicylic Acid or Potassium Nitrate on Growth, Flowering, and Quality of Saffron

The present research was conducted to find influence of salicylic acid (SA) at 0.5, 1, and 2 mM and potassium nitrate (KNO₃) at 250, 500, and 1 000 ppm on reproductive and vegetative parameters, and color characteristics of saffron under field condition. The results indicated the highest a, L, and chroma and the lowest b at 2 mM SA treatment. The highest flowering appearance rate and membrane stability index and the lowest electrolyte leakage were observed at 2 mM SA and to lesser extent at 1000 ppm KNO₃. The highest flower number, corolla dry weight, and stigma dry weight was shown in plants treated with SA. Chlorophyll a content and Fv/Fm value increased with the application of 2 mM SA. The data indicated the effectiveness of SA on the growth of saffron.