The South African native freesia delights us with its brightly coloured, upward-facing blooms and a zesty scent that fills the air in late spring or early summer. There are five to ten tubular flowers that grow on one side of each freesia stem. Even more visually striking are the hybrids with two types of flowers on the same plant. It’s important to note that the its stems twist at right angles immediately below the lowest bloom, producing skyward-facing blooms that draw pollinators. Freesia works incredibly well for arrangements because of this feature.
Freesia: Key facts
| GENUS NAME | Freesia ssp. |
| COMMON NAME | Freesia |
| PLANT TYPE | Bulb, Perennial |
| LIGHT | Part Sun, Sun |
| HEIGHT | 6 to 12 inches |
| WIDTH | 2 to 6 inches |
| FLOWER COLOR | Blue, Orange, Pink, Red, White, Yellow |
| FOLIAGE COLOR | Blue/Green |
| SEASON FEATURES | Fall Bloom, Spring Bloom, Summer Bloom |
| SPECIAL FEATURES | Attracts Birds, Fragrance, Good for Containers, Low Maintenance |
| PROPAGATION | Division |
| PROBLEM SOLVERS | Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant |
Freesia: How to plant?
Freesias are adaptable and can be planted in the ground or grown in pots both indoors and outside. Because they are not frost-hardy, freesias should only be planted outside in the spring or early summer. Since freesias are prone to rot in heavy or wet soil, well-drained soil or potting compost is necessary. Use a soil-based potting compost in the pots and add around 25% to 33% by volume of coarse grit. Soaking freesia bulbs prior to planting is not necessary. Plant the long, thin, pointy-end-up freesia bulbs, spacing them 5 cm apart and planting them 3 to 5 cm deep.
After planting, give the pot plenty of water and place it somewhere cool, shaded, and free of frost (a temperature of around 5°C is ideal). When shoots start to appear after three to four weeks, relocate them to a bright, warmer spot.
Freesia: Care tips
After growth begins, water the freesias frequently to maintain the compost’s moisture content, being cautious not to overwater. When flower buds begin to form on your freesias, start feeding them. Apply a potash-rich liquid fertilizer every ten to fourteen days. Whether grown in the ground or in pots, freesia flowers require some sort of support to prevent the stems from toppling over. Invest in prefabricated supports or utilize twigs that have been inserted into the ground.
Freesia bulbs need to be dug up, dried, and stored in order to be planted again the following year if you are growing them outdoors, since they are not frost hardy. Just trim off the faded flower stalks when the blooming season is over, then gradually cut back on watering until the leaves turn yellow and eventually die. Take the corms out of the ground after the leaves have fully withered back. After being lifted, let them to ripen in a warm location for several months, simulating a South African summer. The following year, store it in a cool, frost-free spot in a paper bag. Only spring planting is possible for the conserved corms because the benefits of the heat treatment will have worn off.
Freesia: Potting and repotting
Potted freesias grow well both indoors and outdoors. Because freesia plants have particular growth requirements, they thrive best as single container specimens. Pick a container with plenty of drainage holes and add well-draining potting mix to it. Plant your corms with the pointed end up, about 1 to 2 inches deep, and at least one inch apart. Give the soil a thorough watering, then place the container outside in a full sun. Put the plant indoors where it will receive bright, indirect light. In roughly 12 weeks, you should be able to expect blossoms if you keep the soil damp but not soggy. Winter is when indoor potted freesia usually blooms.
Freesia: Toxicity
In general, freesias are safe for both people and animals to handle. As with many plants, some people may, however, react to touch with mild skin irritation or allergies. It’s best to handle freesias carefully, particularly if your skin is sensitive. Freesias should not be consumed as it may induce stomach distress.
Freesia: pests and problems
Aphids and thrips, among other insects, are drawn to freesia. Additionally, you may discover slugs and snails eating them. Potential common diseases include the fungus Fusarium wilt, dry rot, and root and stem rot, which is sometimes triggered by damp conditions.
FAQs
What is freesia?
Freesia is a genus of flowering plants known for its fragrant and colorful flowers.
Where do freesias grow?
Freesias are native to South Africa but are widely cultivated in various regions with well-drained soil and mild climates.
How to care for freesia bulbs?
Plant the freesia bulbs in well-drained soil, provide sunlight, and water sparingly. Lift and store the bulbs after flowering for the next season.
Can freesias be grown in pots?
Yes, freesias can be grown in pots with a well-draining mix. Ensure the pots have drainage holes and place them in a sunny location.
What colours do freesias come in?
Freesias come in various colors, including white, yellow, pink, purple, and bi-color combinations.
Are freesias fragrant?
Yes, freesias are known for their sweet and citrusy fragrance, making them popular for cut flowers and bouquets.
How to propagate freesias?
Freesias can be propagated by dividing the bulbs after flowering or by seeds, although bulb division is more common.
Can freesias be grown indoors?
Yes, freesias can be grown indoors in containers, but they still need sunlight and well-draining soil.
Do freesias attract pollinators?
Yes, freesias attract bees and butterflies, contributing to pollination in the garden.
| Got any questions or point of view on our article? We would love to hear from you. Write to our Editor-in-Chief Jhumur Ghosh at jhumur.ghosh1@housing.com |
