| I have purchased a bunch of freesia bulbs. I am interested, in having freesias around throughout the year. Is any special treatment of the corms necessary after they are done blooming? For example, will the bulbs which are done blooming indoors in the winter or spring need to be chilled before being planted again? |
| Freesia is so lovely -- but it is usually grown as a potted plant for either winter or spring blooming because it has fairly demanding temperature requirements for bud formation. (Normally it is planted in late summer so it will bloom indoors during the winter or early spring.) Once planted in a rich, well drained mix (plant them about two inches apart in groups of say nine to a six inch pot) set them in a cool location (about 50 degrees) for two weeks to root and sprout. When they have sprouted, set them in a sunny location and keep them growing fairly cool, about 55 degrees. Keep them in bright light, lightly watered and fed lightly. Once the flower buds begin to show, keep them a bit warmer, between 60 and 65 degrees at night. After they bloom, gradually allow them to dry off and ripen in a cool spot, then either leave them in the pot or remove them from the soil for storage in a cool (not freezing!) dry spot until next year. Good luck with your project! |
