Freesia is a genus of fragrant, colorful flowers native to the Cape Provinces of South Africa, where they grow from a corm (a bulb-like structure). The trumpet-shaped blossoms are highly valued for their sweet, citrusy scent and wide range of colors, making them a popular choice for cut flowers. Since Freesias are tender perennials, planting the corms at the correct time is essential for success. Temperature requirements determine whether planting should occur in spring for a summer bloom or in fall for an earlier spring display.
Planting Freesias for Summer Blooms (Spring Planting)
Gardeners in temperate regions (USDA Hardiness Zones 3 through 8) must plant Freesia corms outdoors in the spring. Since Freesias are not frost-tolerant and cannot survive a cold winter in the ground, spring planting is the most common approach. The optimal time to plant is after the final danger of frost has passed and the soil begins to warm up, typically from April to early June.
Planting should be delayed until the soil temperature consistently reaches about 50°F (10°C). Spring-planted corms require an extended period of growth, taking approximately 100 to 120 days to reach the blooming stage. This timing results in a display of flowers during mid-to-late summer and into the early fall.
Planting Freesias for Spring Blooms (Fall Planting and Forcing)
For gardeners in mild climates (USDA Hardiness Zones 9 and 10), Freesia corms can be planted directly into the ground during the fall. The corms are winter-hardy in these warmer zones and can be left in the ground to perennialize. They naturally sprout in the fall, develop foliage over the winter, and bloom in late winter or early spring.
Gardeners in colder regions can achieve winter or early spring blooms by planting corms in containers during the fall, a method known as forcing. To successfully force the corms, plant them in pots and keep them in a cool, frost-free location for three to four weeks at around 41°F (5°C). This cool period initiates the growth and flowering process. Afterward, move the containers to a bright spot with temperatures between 50°F and 60°F (10°C and 15°C) for the foliage to develop and the flowers to emerge.
Preparing the Planting Site
The chosen site must meet specific requirements for the corms to thrive. Freesia plants perform best in full sun, meaning at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight daily. While they can tolerate light afternoon shade, excessive shade can lead to weak, spindly growth that may not support the heavy flower spikes.
The soil requires a rich, well-draining medium to prevent the corms from rotting. Amending the planting area with organic material like compost helps improve both fertility and drainage. Plant the corms with the pointed end facing up, typically one to two inches deep in the soil or potting mix. For a full display, space the corms approximately two to three inches apart in groups.
Seasonal Care and Storage
Once Freesia plants are actively growing, they require consistent moisture; the soil should be kept lightly moist but never waterlogged. After blooming, cut back the stems, but leave the foliage intact. The leaves photosynthesize, sending energy back into the corm for the following season’s flowers.
In zones colder than USDA Zone 9, where the corms will not survive winter outdoors, they must be lifted and stored before the first hard frost. Once the foliage has yellowed and withered, dig up the corms, clean them of soil, and allow them to dry completely. Store the dried corms in a cool, dry, and dark location, ideally at about 55°F (13°C), until the following spring planting season.