Saffron cultivation - which has been synonymous with Kashmir - bore results in Telangana. Researchers at Sri Konda Laxman Telangana Horticulture University used aeroponic methods to cultivate the crop in a 200 sq. ft. lab, and it bore flowers. Although researchers are confident of its grade, the flowers will be sent to a lab to establish the quality. Vice Chancellor, Danda Rajireddy, said that they will soon share the knowledge with interested farmers and youth in rural localities.
The aeroponic method does not need soil. Temperature is controlled, and water and essential nutrients are supplied in the form of mist. The lab is at Morije Horticultural College - affiliated to the University. Vertical farming is being used to accommodate 200 kgs of saffron bulbs.
