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Freesia flowers are some of the most popular blooms in cut flower arrangements. They are relatively easy to grow and make excellent additions to any garden. With their delicate fragrance and wide range of colours, freesias are sure to please anyone who walks by them.
Curious about how to grow freesia? This guide will tell you everything you need to know, from planting to care.
Botanical Name
These plants are part of the Iridaceae family and the genus freesia. The most common species is freesia refracta, which features yellow or white blooms.
Common Name
The flower is a beautiful and popular bloom most commonly seen in shades of yellow, pink, purple, and white. The is named after German physician and botanist Friedrich Freese.
Plant Type
The plant type of this flower is herbaceous. Perennial grows yearly, while annual only last one season.
Varieties
There are wide varieties available, with different colours and sizes. Some of the most popular types include:
‘Belleville’
Belleville is a type that is characterized by its large blooms. It belongs to the family Iridaceae and is native to South Africa. The plant has sword-shaped leaves and can grow up to 1 meter in height. The flowers are white with yellow throats and have a sweet fragrance.
This variety is ideal for cut flowers as they have a long vase life. They can also be used in pots and containers. Belleville freesias are heat tolerant and can be grown in areas with total sun exposure.
‘Golden Passion’
The Golden Passion is a popular choice for its beautiful yellow flowers. This variety is perfect for adding a splash of colour to any garden or bouquet. The Golden Passion freesia will bloom from early summer to fall with proper care.
The Golden Passion originates from South Africa. This freesia variety was first introduced to Europe in the early 19th century and has been a popular choice ever since. This type is a tuberous perennial plant that grows about 12-24 inches tall. The leaves of this plant are long and narrow, with a deep green colour. The flowers of the Golden Passion are its most defining feature – they are large and bright yellow, with a sweet fragrance.
‘Oberon’
The Oberon is a new and improved version of the popular type. It was developed by crossing two existing varieties, ‘Alba’ and ‘Buckingham’. The result is a flowers with large, double that are very fragrant.
This type is also very easy to grow. It can be planted in the ground or in pots and will bloom from mid-spring to early summer.
‘Royal Blue’
The royal blue is a beautiful blue variety with a solid fragrance. It is a member of the iris family and is native to South Africa. This was named after Friedrich Freese, a German botanist. The royal blue grows best in full sun and well-drained soil. It blooms in late spring or early summer. The royal blue is a popular cut flower and makes a beautiful addition to any garden.
How To Grow
These flower is an excellent choice if you want a colourful and fragrant addition to your garden. These beautiful flowers are relatively easy to grow and make lovely cut flowers. With a bit of care, you can enjoy flowers in your garden for many years.
To grow, you need to consider the following:
Where To Grow
These flowers can grown in pots or on the ground, in well-drained soil. If you live in an area with cold winters, freesia corms can be planted outdoors after the last frost date. In warmer climates, they can be grown year-round.
When To Plant
The best time to plant is spring, after the last frost they can be grown in either full sun or partial shade. If you live in an area with hot summers, it’s best to plant in a spot with some afternoon shade.
How To Plant
These flowers are easy to grow from bulbs; they will multiply over time and provide you with an abundance of cut flowers. To plant, you need to:
- Fill your pot or container with potting mix, leaving enough room at the top for watering.
- Using a pencil or dibber, make a hole in the potting mix big enough to insert the bulb.
- Gently push the bulb into the hole, ensuring that the pointy end faces upwards.
- Backfill the hole with a potting mix, firming it around the bulb.
- Water well to settle the potting mix around the bulb.
How to Care
These are an excellent choice if you’re looking for a plant that will fill your garden with fragrance. These tuberous perennials are native to South Africa and related to irises. To care, you need to consider the following.
Watering
These flowers likes moist but well-drained soil. Water regularly, especially during the growing season. Be careful not to overwater as this can cause the bulbs to rot.
Fertilizing
The fertilizer used to grow should be high in phosphorus. This is because phosphorus aids in the development of bulbs and also encourages blooming. You can use a standard 10-10-10 fertilizer or a specifically designed for bulbous plants.
If you are unsure which fertilizer to use, ask your local nursery or gardening centre for guidance.
Staking
Staking in this flower garden is unnecessary, but it may be something to consider if you live in an area with strong winds. You can use any stake, but bamboo works well and is easily hidden among the foliage. Place the stake next to the plant and tie the stem to it using soft gardening twine. Be careful not to damage the stem. These plants are top-heavy and may fall over if not properly staked.
Deadheading
To deadhead flower stems:
- Look for flower stems that have finished blooming and are starting to turn brown.
- Cut the stem off at the base, just above where it meets the main plant.
- Repeat this process throughout the plant’s blooming season. Deadheading will encourage the plant to produce more flowers.
Overwintering
Overwintering flowers is the process of storing the bulbs during the winter so they can be replanted and will bloom the following spring again. This guide will show you how to overwinter freesia flowers so you can enjoy their beauty for many years!
There are a few different ways to overwinter bulbs. One method is to plant the bulbs in pots and store them indoors in a cool, dark place such as a basement or garage. Another way is to dig up the bulbs and keep them in a mesh bag in a cool, dry place.
Whichever method you choose, be sure to water the bulbs periodically.
Seasonal Check
Seasonal check-in is essential to ensure they get the right amount of light and water. They need at least 6 hours of sunlight daily, and too much shade will make them leggy. Water freesia when the soil is dry to the touch, but be careful not to overwater as this can lead to root rot.
Spring
During spring, check for new growth and if the plant is root-bound. If it is, replant it in a larger pot with fresh potting mix. Water when the topsoil is dry, and fertilize every two weeks with a balanced fertilizer. Deadhead the flowers as they fade to encourage more blooms. When they are finished blooming, cut the plant back to 2-3 inches (5-7.5 cm) above the soil and allow it to go dormant.
Summer
In summer, the flower will enter a period of dormancy. Keep the plant in a sunny spot and water when the topsoil is dry, but don’t fertilize. If you live in a hot climate, you can move the plant outdoors for the summer.
Winter
Winter is the best time to plant them. In most cases, you’ll be able to find freesia corms for sale in garden stores or online. When selecting corms, look for larger bulbs that are plump and firm. Avoid any mushy, discoloured, or visible signs of mould.
Autumn
In autumn, they can be planted in pots or on the ground. If you live in an area with warm winters, you can grow in the background, and they will come back year after year. If you live in a room with cold winters, it is best to plant in pots to bring them indoors during the winter.
Pests and Common Diseases
The pests and common diseases found are aphids, slugs, and whiteflies. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The diseases affecting freesias are downy mildew, botrytis, and root rot. These diseases can be controlled with fungicidal soap or copper sulphate.
The best way to prevent pests and diseases from affecting your plant is to keep your plants healthy and stress-free. Make sure to water them regularly, fertilize them properly, and provide them with enough sunlight. If you see any signs of pests or diseases, immediately prevent them from spreading.
How to Arrange Freesia Flower
This is a question that many people have been asking lately. You can answer this question in many ways, but the most important thing is to find a method that works best for you. How to arrange freesia flowers? Well, let’s take a look at a few different ways.
- The first method is to use a vase. You will need to find a tall vase to hold the freesia stems and wide enough to allow the flowers to open up. Fill the vase with lukewarm water and add a small amount of flower food. Cut the branches of the flowers at an angle and place them in the vase. Make sure that the blooms are facing outwards.
- The second method is to use a Freesia Flower Frog. This is a small device that holds the stems in place. You will need to find a freesia frog that is the right size for your vase. Fill the vase with lukewarm water and add a small amount of flower food. Place the stems into the frog and arrange them, so the blooms face outwards.
- The third method is to use Freesia Flower Tape. This is a clear tape used to hold the stems in place. You will need to find a flower tape that is the right size for your vase. Fill the vase with lukewarm water and add a small amount of flower food. Wrap the stems with the flower.
Did You Know?
Did you know that freesia flowers symbolize innocence? This makes them a popular choice for baby showers, and christenings and this flower is often chosen as an aesthetic name for girls.
So, there you have it; if you are interested in learning how to grow freesia, then make sure to check out our complete guide. We cover everything from planting to care so that you can get the most out of your freesia plants. Thanks for reading, and good luck!
Frequently Asked Questions about Freesias
What does freesia smell like?
Freesia smells like a sweet, floral, springtime fragrance. It is often used in perfumes and has a light, airy smell. Some people describe it as being similar to lily of the valley or jasmine.
What does freesia symbolize?
Freesia is a delicate flower that often symbolizes innocence, purity, and friendship. It’s also sometimes associated with springtime, new beginnings, and fresh starts.
Do freesias like sun or shade?
Freesias like plenty of sun but can also do well in light shade. They need ample water when they’re flowering, but can take drier conditions afterward. Freesias are very popular flowers, and with good reason—they’re beautiful, long-lasting, and easy to grow. They come in a wide range of colors, so there’s sure to be one that will suit your garden. And if you’re not keen on growing them from seed yourself, you can always pick up a pot or two from your local florist.
Where does freesia grow best?
Freesia grows best in full sun in well-drained soil. They can be planted in the late fall or early winter, and will bloom from early spring through early summer. Freesia are very sensitive to heat and humidity, so they are not ideal for planting in areas with high temperatures or humid climates.
Are freesias toxic?
Freesias are not toxic, but they can cause skin allergies in some people.
Freesias do contain a small amount of pollen, and people who are allergic to pollen may experience a skin reaction after handling or smelling freesias. Symptoms of a freesia allergy can include redness, swelling, and itching of the skin. If you have any reaction after contact with freesias, be sure to see your doctor.
Which color freesia is the most fragrant?
The most fragrant freesia is the white freesia. However, all colors of freesia have a sweet, floral fragrance. They make wonderful additions to bouquets and table centerpieces, and are perfect for weddings or any special occasion.
Do freesias flower more than once?
Yes, freesias can flower more than once. They typically have a single blooming period, but if the flowers are removed when they first start to open, the plant may flower again later in the season. Freesias also often re-flower if they are cut and brought inside as a bouquet.
How big do Freesia grow?
Freesias typically grow to be about 12-18 inches tall, with a spread of around 8-10 inches.
Freesias are moderately easy to care for, and prefer well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade. They can be planted outdoors in late spring or early summer, and will continue flowering until the first frost. You can also start them indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost date. To encourage blooming, make sure to deadhead (remove) faded flowers regularly.
Are freesias edible?
Yes, freesias are edible! They have a slightly sweet, floral taste and can be eaten raw or added to salads or other dishes. Freesias are also sometimes used in herbal tea
Why are my freesias falling over?
Freesias often fall over because they are top-heavy and their blooms tend to be very heavy.
Another reason they may fall over is if the plant is not getting enough water. Make sure the soil is moist but not wet, and make sure you are watering the plant regularly. If you have a lot of flowers on your freesia, you may want to consider thinning them out a bit so that the plant doesn’t become too top-heavy.
