Freesias are versatile and can be grown in pots indoors or outdoors, or in the ground. Freesias aren’t frost-hardy so can only be planted outdoors in spring or early summer. Well-drained soil or potting compost is essential as freesias are likely to rot in heavy or waterlogged soil. In pots, use a soil-based potting compost mixed with around a quarter to a third by volume of coarse grit. Plant the long, slender freesia corms pointy-end up, at a depth of 3-5cm, and spaced 5cm apart. Planting time depends on whether you’re growing freesias for indoor or outdoor flowering. For indoor growing, plant corms in autumn to bloom in late winter. To grow freesias in indoor pots for early summer flowering, plant from January to March under cover. To grow outdoors, plant from April to June. Once planted, water well and then stand the pot in a cool, shaded, frost free place – a temperature of around 5°C is ideal. After 3-4 weeks when shoots appear, move into a warmer and sunny position.
