This invention discloses a method for shade cultivation of saffron in high-altitude areas, relating to the field of saffron cultivation technology. Specifically, it includes
seedling selection, planting selected seedlings in the field, erecting a shade net above the field to control the shading rate (75%–85%), and watering, fertilizing, and pest and
disease control under the shade net. This method solves the technical problems of complex understory lighting conditions, the unclear
adaptation threshold and suitable shading range for saffron to low-light environments, and the lack of scientific parameter support for understory cultivation. Using this method, a root zone and
canopy environment with coordinated light, temperature, and water is created for saffron growth. The S80 method of this invention extends the entire growth period of saffron to 260–280 days, increasing the time window for photosynthetic product accumulation, effectively maintaining
bulb fresh weight and
diameter, and providing sufficient energy and material basis for flower development and
bulb enlargement. Furthermore, its medicinal value meets and exceeds the standards of the 2020 edition of the
Chinese Pharmacopoeia.