Freesias are fragrant flowering plants known for their colorful blooms and delightful scent. They’re usually grown from bulbs or corms. Here’s a guide on how to grow freesias:
Planting Freesia Bulbs:
- Choosing Bulbs:
- Select healthy freesia bulbs/corms. Look for firm bulbs without signs of damage or rot. They should have a papery covering and some visible roots or shoots.
- Timing:
- Plant freesia bulbs in the fall for spring blooms or in late winter for summer flowers.
- Soil and Location:
- Freesias prefer well-draining soil with good organic content. Choose a sunny or partially shaded spot in the garden.
- Planting:
- Dig holes in the soil, about 2 to 4 inches (5 to 10 cm) deep and space the bulbs around 2 to 3 inches (5 to 7.5 cm) apart.
- Place the bulbs with the pointed end facing upward and cover them with soil.
- Watering:
- Water the planted bulbs thoroughly but avoid waterlogging the soil. Keep the soil moist but not overly wet.
- Temperature and Care:
- Freesias thrive in mild climates. Protect them from freezing temperatures.
- As the plants grow, provide support to prevent them from flopping over.
- Fertilization:
- Fertilize the freesias with a balanced, soluble fertilizer during the growing season to support healthy growth and blooming.
- Blooming and Deadheading:
- Freesias bloom in late spring to summer. Remove spent flowers to encourage new blooms and extend the flowering period.
- Post-Blooming Care:
- After blooming, allow the foliage to wither naturally. At this point, you can lift and store the corms for the next planting season if you live in a cold climate.
Overwintering Freesia Corms:
- In areas with colder winters, lift the corms after the foliage has died back naturally in autumn.
- Clean excess soil off the corms and let them dry for a few days in a well-ventilated area.
- Store the corms in a cool, dry place (around 40-50°F or 4-10°C) for the winter until it’s time to replant in the following season.
Freesias can add a burst of color and a delightful fragrance to your garden or containers. With proper care—ensuring well-draining soil, adequate water, sunlight, and attention to post-blooming storage in colder climates—you can enjoy the beauty and fragrance of freesias in your garden season after season.
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.