Although the freesias from South Africa cannot exactly be described as easy to care for, they are not extremely demanding either. With a little care and sensitivity, you can look forward to a delicate abundance of flowers for several weeks.
Freesias like it warm and sunny
location and soil
Location and soil are very important for the freesia. If she doesn't feel well, she won't form any flowers. Therefore, plant your freesias in a sunny and warm place with rather moist but well-drained soil. Rain damages the sensitive leaves and flowers of the freesia, so the location should be well protected. Freesias are also suitable as indoor plants.
Water and fertilize
Your freesia needs plenty of water, especially during the growth phase. However, always water in such a way that the water does not hit the leaves and flowers. Fertilizer is only necessary in moderation, about every four weeks. Make sure that the potassium content is sufficiently high.
The hibernation
After the flowering period, leave your freesia leaves to dry completely before cutting them off. In this way, the plant can store energy and nutrients for the winter and new shoots in spring.
Before the first frost, pull the bulbs of your outdoor freesias out of the ground, dry them for a few days and then store them in a box filled with straw. Place them in a well-ventilated room with a temperature of around 15°C to 20°C. You do not have to dig up freesias in pots, they can overwinter in them, but must not be watered.
The essentials in brief:
- not hardy, so only plant out after the ice saints
- Keep soil well moist
- water regularly
- Protect leaves and flowers from water and rain
- Fertilize sparingly about every week
- Be sure to let the leaves dry on the plant
- Store the tuber in a dry and airy place at approx. 15 °C to 20 °C in winter
tips
After a few years, your freesia will form so-called daughter tubers, from which you can grow new plants.