This is the second year that I planted freesia bulbs. I had a bag that had been in my gardening supplies for a year or so (I have a tendency to put things away and forget about them), so I finally decided to put them in the ground. The results were great!
These are such strong-smelling flowers; I recommend you don’t cut them to bring them indoors. They are beautiful outdoors in early spring, where you can enjoy the scent and not be overwhelmed by them.
Hardiness Zone
They are hardy in zones 9 to 11 but planted as an annual in other zones. A few I planted in a container in zone 7b did return the following season.
How to Plant Freesia
Plant the bulbs with the pointy side up in well-drained soil, very close to the soil surface. Plant the bulbs 2 inches deep, about 3 inches apart. Freesias have very deep roots, so loose, well-drained soil is a must. In zone 9 and below, plant these corms in the fall for early spring blooms. For colder zones, plant in April to May, after the risk of frost has passed.
Light Conditions
Freesias do best in full sun, but they can tolerate a little afternoon shade. Freesias don’t tolerate hot temperatures very well, so the plants will fade as the weather warms up.
Flower Supports
You may want to support the flower stems to keep them from drooping. Add twist ties along the stems to loosely attach them to a stake or twig. Each stem has multiple flowers, so the blooms continue for several days to a couple of weeks.
Water Requirements
Freesias have a moderate requirement for water, so keep them watered regularly. Do not allow the soil to stay wet, as this will rot the corms.
