Double-flowered hybrids provide an even showier display.
This characteristic makes freesiawonderful for arrangements.
Soil and Water
Freesia grows best in well-drained, fertile soil that is rich in organic matter.
After planting, water them only sparingly; overwatering can lead to rotting.
Once they start sprouting, water moderately in the absence of rain to keep the soil lightly moist.
Once the summer heat sets in, freesia will go dormant and should not be watered any longer.
Temperature and Humidity
Freesia are hardy in zones 9 and 10.
Cool springtime temperatures between 55 and 60 degrees are prime time for freesia.
It is during that stage that the plant forms new bulblets.
In the early spring.
Plant 6 to 8 corms with their pointed end up, 1 inch deep.
This will give you a dense cluster of freesia in the late summer or early fall.
You might also find snails and slugs feeding on them.
How to Propagate Freesia
Freesia are best propagated from the corms, the bulbo-tuberous underground stems.
The larger the corms, the more energy they contain and the larger the flowers will be.
Thats why you should only select large, healthy corms when propagating your own freesia.
Gently remove the corm offsets from the parent plant, taking care to leave them intact.
Plant the corms 2 inches apart or denser, following the instructions for planting freesia above.
Add structure to the planting bed by surrounding it with a low fence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Freesia can be forced to bloom inside.
Plant the corm in a container filled with quick-draining potting soil in October or November.
Water the container well and place it in a bright sunny window.
Expect freesia to bloom 4 months or more after planting.
Cut freesia early in the morning before it gets warm and dries out the petals.
Hold the cut stems under water while you cut them again at a slight angle.
Immediately arrange them in a vase of water.
Change the water every day or use a floral preservative.
