Freesias

Freesia

(Freesia spp)

Introduction

Freesias are popular spring flowering corms, native to South Africa. The 11 species and numerous hybrids of Freesia belong to the Iridaceae family. Freesias make excellent cut flowers and are highly prized for their delightful perfume. Freesias can be grown from seed or corms. They have several sword shaped leaves surrounding a thin flower stem. The flower stems bend at right angles at the top where the 5–10 tubular shaped flowers start. There is a large range of flower colours including white, blue, red, yellow and pink.

Most cut flower Freesia production occurs in glasshouses, as it is easier to manipulate the time of flowering in a controlled environment. Export corms can be produced either inside or outside as long as the plants are protected from the wind. Freesias like a well-drained soil and only require moisture during periods of active growth.

Growing Freesias

Propagation:	The corms are planted in beds approximately 1m wide with 60cm between beds.
Time of flowering:	Flowering occurs 12–16 weeks after the bud initiation period in the corm.
Crop protection:	Protection from the wind is required for both flower and corm production. Cut flowers are best grown in tunnel houses
Soil type:	Freesias can be grown in a wide range of soil types, but perform best where soil is friable, fertile and well drained. Soil should be sterilised every one to two seasons to prevent any accumulation of soil diseases. pH6–6.5
Fertilisers:	Organic fertilisers such as blood and bone. Do not use animal manures.
Pest/Diseases:	Fusarium, Aphids, Botrytis
Harvesting:	Freesias should be harvested as the first bud is fully coloured but prior to opening.
Marketing:	Freesia flowers and corms are sold on both the local and export markets. Flowers should be bunched in single colours, as mixed colours tend to attract a lower price. Corms can be sold to other growers in the North Island or exported through marketing agents.
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