Freesia

This group consists of 19 tender, deciduous, perennial corms from South Africa. These members of the Iris family, Iridaceae, bear extremely fragrant flowers in the spring. They are suitable for growing in borders and in containers outside or as houseplants. Freesias grow from 12 to 18 inches tall producing fans of small, sword-shaped leaves. In the spring, long, thin stalks grow above the leaves and bear clusters of dainty, trumpet-shaped flowers up to 2 inches long. The sweetly scented flowers come in an array of colors including white, gold, orange, pink, red, purple, or blue. Some species have flowers veined or feathered with two colors; some have double-petaled flowers. Their flowers last over a week when cut.

Pot Cultivation

Freesias are hardy to zones 9 and 10. They can be grown outside year-round in regions where the temperature does not fall below 20° F and summers are dry and winters cool and moist. They don't like hot, damp summers and may not establish or return. However, the corms of these plants are readily available and inexpensive; therefore, they may be replaced annually. Freesias do best in daytime temperatures ranging from 60° to 70° F, falling to 50 to 60° F at night. In hot climates, they will go dormant in the summer. In areas with wet summers, the corms should be dug up and stored dry in a 77° to 86� F temperature for at least three months. Pots should be stored in a dry spot until fall. Grow Freesias in well-drained, sandy soil in a sunny or very lightly shaded location. In the South, plant the corms in autumn, with their pointed ends up, 5 inches deep and 1 or 2 inches apart. They should be planted in the spring, in the North. They will start to flower some 10 to 12 weeks after planting. By staggering the times you plant, you may extend their blooming season. In containers, set the corms an inch deep, 6 to 8 corms per 6-inch pot. Water your plants regularly while they grow and bloom, but avoid over-watering. They should also be fertilized lightly while they are in active growth. Freesias tend to sprawl, so set them close together for support and stake as needed.

Propagation

Offsets may be detached and planted. Seeds may be sown in the spring or early summer, in pots of finely sifted soil. Lightly cover them and place in a warm place with a pane of glass over the containers until they sprout.