How to plant and care for Freesia corms in California.

Introduction

Freesias are beloved for their sweet fragrance, elegant trumpet-shaped blooms, and long vase life—making them a florist and gardener favorite. Native to South Africa, they thrive in California’s mild winters and sunny springs. With proper planting and care, freesia will reward you with abundant, fragrant blooms in a rainbow of colors that bring cheer both in the garden and indoors.

Step-by-Step Planting Guide

Step 1: Timing

Plant freesia corms in fall through early winter (October–December) for spring blooms in California. Cool weather helps them root deeply before producing flower spikes. In coastal areas, you can plant as late as January for a slightly later bloom.

Step 2: Choose Your Spot & Prepare Soil

Select a sunny location—freesia bloom best with at least 6 hours of full sun each day. They prefer light, well-draining soil, such as sandy or loamy beds. Amend heavy clay soils with compost, sand, or fine bark to improve drainage. Freesia do beautifully in raised beds and containers, where drainage is easiest to control.

Step 3: Planting Depth & Spacing

Plant corms 2 inches deep, pointed end up (the narrow end should face upward). Space corms 2–3 inches apart for mass plantings, or wider if mixing varieties. Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil.

Step 4: Watering

Keep soil evenly moist after planting but never waterlogged. Once shoots appear, maintain moderate moisture throughout the growing period. Avoid overhead watering once flower buds form—wet foliage can lead to disease. Reduce watering after bloom, and stop once foliage yellows and dies back.

Step 5: Fertilizing

At planting, mix a balanced bulb fertilizer (5-10-10 or similar) into the soil. Feed again lightly when shoots emerge and before flowering. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers—they promote foliage over flowers.

Ongoing Care

• Stake tall varieties early to prevent bending flower stems.

• Deadhead spent blooms to keep plants tidy and encourage continued flowering.

• Cut flowers frequently—freesias are prolific bloomers, and harvesting encourages more spikes.

• Protect from frost in colder inland or foothill areas with frost cloth or mulch.

Freesia bloom best with mild winter temperatures and bright spring sun, making them ideal for most of California’s coastal and valley regions.

After Bloom Care

Once blooming finishes and foliage begins to yellow, gradually stop watering. Allow leaves to die back naturally—this helps recharge the corms. In dry summer climates, lift and store corms once the foliage has fully withered. Clean and dry them, then store in a cool, airy place until replanting next fall. In mild coastal areas, freesia can be left in the ground to naturalize and may rebloom yearly.

Final Tip

Freesias are one of the most rewarding bulbs to grow for their fragrance and beauty. With a little patience and regular care, you’ll enjoy armloads of sweetly scented blooms each spring—perfect for cutting and bringing indoors.

🌸 Ready to plant? Browse our Freesia Corms and bring these fragrant favorites to your California garden.