Freesias grow from corms – fleshy, rounded underground storage organs sold dormant, not true bulbs. Most garden centres and bulb catalogues still sell and label them as “freesia bulbs,” so this guide uses both terms, but the plant itself is a corm.
Prepared vs. unprepared corms
Freesia corms are commonly sold as “prepared” – specially heat-treated to flower reliably around 100-120 days after planting in their first year, mimicking the seasonal cues of their native South Africa. Unprepared corms follow a more natural, less predictable cycle. If flowering time matters to you, check which type you’re buying.
Planting depth and spacing
Plant corms with the tips just above the level of the compost or soil, spaced 5-8cm (2-3in) apart. Water gently after planting.
Planting season and cool treatment
Prepared corms planted outside in spring (around April in temperate climates) will typically flower in late summer. For earlier, indoor flowering, corms are often started in a cool greenhouse or coldframe – keeping newly planted corms at around 5°C (41°F) for three to four weeks before warmer growing conditions helps flowering. Freesias are frost-tender and are usually grown in containers that can be moved under cover.
Sun and site
Give freesias a sunny position. In containers, this means the brightest spot available; in a greenhouse, maximum available light.
Watering and feeding
Water moderately through the growing season and apply a balanced liquid fertiliser about once a month while the plant is actively growing.
Staking
Freesia’s flower stems are thin and can flop, especially indoors or in a greenhouse away from wind. A light stake, twiggy support, or growing several corms close together for mutual support helps keep stems upright.
After flowering and dormancy
Once flowering finishes and the foliage begins to die back, let the plant dry out completely. Freesia corms need to be kept completely dry while dormant – damp storage is one of the most common ways to lose them. In frost-free climates they can be left in the ground or pot; elsewhere, lift and store the dry corms somewhere cool and dark until the next planting season.
Quick questions
Are freesias grown from bulbs or corms? Corms, technically – but “freesia bulbs” is the common name used by most sellers and gardeners.
Why didn’t my freesia flower? Check whether you planted a prepared corm (bred to flower reliably in year one) and whether it got the cool early treatment and enough light – both affect flowering.
Can freesias survive winter outdoors? Only in frost-free or near frost-free climates. Elsewhere, treat them as a container plant moved under cover, or lift and store the dormant corms.
Related guides
Growing this under cover? See our guide to choosing and setting up a greenhouse.
