Advancing climate adaptation in saffron through CRISPR-based modulation of stress tolerance and photoperiodic flowering control

Saffron (<i>Crocus sativus</i> L.) is a high-value crop known for its intricate harvesting process and limited production due to factors like triploid sterility and specific climatic needs. This review discusses biotechnological methods, particularly CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing, aimed at improving heat and drought tolerance and achieving year-round flowering. Such genetic edits as evidenced with experimental CRISPR/Cas9 systems that reach up to 70% callus initiation in saffron. Cultivation efficiency and quality are increased in Hydroponic systems and synthetic bioreactors, which have been proven in trials in non-traditional areas such as North Bengal, India. Nonetheless, internationalization threatens the market value and cultural integrity of saffron, and such measures as fair-trade labels, GI laws, and cooperatives of stakeholders must be implemented fairly and equally.