Q&A with Glenys Woollard

When and how do I harvest saffron?

Saffron bulbs (crocus sativus) flower in autumn, and the crimson/orange stigmas (much longer than the yellow stamens in the centre of the flower) should be harvested immediately, as the flowers wilt within a day or so. Arrange the saffron filaments on kitchen paper and leave in a warm dry place for several days before transferring to an airtight container, ready for use. Saffron bulbs can sometimes be found in garden centres and should be planted in a sunny, well-drained spot.

Do freshly fallen chestnuts need any special treatment?

Yes. Prickly burrs need to be removed and the chestnuts dried at room temperature for several days to prevent mould. After this initial curing, the nuts should be covered, stored in the fridge and used within a couple of weeks - they are quite perishable. Note that chestnuts explode if roasted or microwaved without having been pierced first, so make an angled cut right through the shell at the base or pierce the nut with a fork before cooking by these methods.

If you have a gardening question, email Glenys at glenyswoollard@clear.net.nz