Freesia care guide

Pets and children

We haven't been able to confirm how this plant affects pets or small children. If any is eaten, consult a veterinarian or a doctor.

How often to water Freesia

Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep)

Every 5 days

Until bloom, water well once the topsoil dries, as a guide; when the leaves yellow after flowering, stop, lift the corms and store them dry for summer.

Autumn (Oct–Nov)

Every 5 days

After planting, keep the soil lightly moist, watering about when it dries.

Winter (Dec–Feb)

Every 7 days

While the leaves are growing, water on a mild morning once the topsoil dries, as a guide.

Light and placement for Freesia

A sunny spot outdoors, as a guide; too little light makes the leaves thin and floppy, and keeping the flowers out of the rain makes them last.

Overwintering Freesia

Overwintering guide: 0°C (32°F) or above

Frost scorches the leaves, so overwinter in sun under the eaves, as a guide, with fleece on hard-frost nights; a heated room makes it leggy, so use a cool window if it comes in.

Fertilizing and repotting Freesia

Fertilizer

Mix slow-release fertilizer in at planting, then liquid feed about every two weeks from sprouting until buds show, and lightly after bloom until the leaves die.

When to repot

Autumn (Oct–Nov)

Common problems with Freesia

• Planted too early, the leaves grow tall before winter and frost knocks them down.
• Without support the leaves and stems flop and the flowers get muddy.
• Lifted too late into the rainy season, the corms rot.

Tips for growing Freesia

• Plant from mid-October to November, about 3–5 cm deep and close together so they hold each other up.
• Once the leaves reach about 30 cm, add a stake or support ring early.
• The fragrant spikes make good cut flowers; cut when the first one or two florets open.

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