Russ, you can try (1) to cover beds with black plastic sheets as soon as saffron goes dormant. Corms are deep enough not to be affected by heat, unless you have a shallow planting or (as it seems) you are in an area with strong insulation (make a test first : I'm not responsible for consequences). Without light, weeds die. Their seeds are killed by heat; (2) add mulch, which will prevent seeds from germinating. But depending on your soil characteristics, climate, and type of mulch, mulch can promote fungal diseases on corms (make also a test : same); (3) introducing gooses or any small grazing animal (which weight will not tamp the soil) in your field (after saffron goes dormant and before it grows back) : they will clean it. I need to add that there is no miracle solution : weeds are still there and will always be there. Therefore, it is more a question of finding clever balance with nature. For instance, I am currently promoting a tiny (3cm) annual winter weed, which forms a very dense mat suppressing germination of all other plants, but which is too small to have any impact on saffron. I don't know the name of this plant and if anyone wants to help me id it, you are most welcome. I can take pictures and post it on the forum. *Dr. Christian M. Lachaud, PhD* _________________ http://www.saffron-crocuses.com/