As a gardening and landscaping expert, I am happy to provide you with a detailed answer to your question: Do freesias come back every year?
Freesias, which are beautiful and fragrant flowers, are typically treated as annuals by gardeners in zones 3-8. This means that they are replanted each year using fresh bulbs. However, it is possible to save the corms (bulbs) of freesias for the following year if you take the proper steps.
If your freesias are planted in the ground, here’s what you can do to save the corms for next year:
1. After the flowers fade: Once the flowers on your freesias have faded, it is important to cut off the stems. This helps to redirect the plant’s energy towards bulb development rather than seed production.
2. Allow the plants to continue growing: After removing the spent flower stems, allow the freesias to continue growing until the foliage starts to yellow. This period is crucial for the bulb to absorb nutrients and store energy for next year’s growth.
3. Stop watering: As the foliage starts to yellow, gradually reduce watering. This helps to simulate the dry conditions that freesias experience in their native habitat. The reduced moisture prompts the plant to go dormant and prepare for its resting period.
4. Lift the bulbs: Once the foliage has completely yellowed and dried up, it is time to lift the bulbs from the ground. Use a garden fork or trowel to carefully dig around the bulbs, being cautious not to damage them.
5. Clean and prepare the bulbs: Gently remove any excess soil from the bulbs and inspect them for any signs of damage or disease. Discard any bulbs that appear unhealthy. You can also remove the old corms that may have formed at the base of the bulb.
6. Cure the bulbs: Allow the bulbs to dry in a well-ventilated area for a few days. This helps to further prevent any potential rot or fungal diseases during storage.
7. Store the bulbs: Once the bulbs are dry, store them in a cool and dry location. A mesh bag or paper bag is ideal for storage, as it allows for air circulation. Avoid storing the bulbs in plastic bags, as this can lead to excessive moisture buildup and rot.
8. Replant in spring: When spring arrives, usually after the last frost date in your area, you can replant the saved bulbs in your garden. Choose a well-draining location with full to partial sunlight for optimal growth.
It’s important to note that while saving freesia bulbs can be successful, there is always a chance of failure or loss due to various factors such as improper storage or unfavorable weather conditions. Therefore, many gardeners in zones 3-8 prefer to treat freesias as annuals and simply purchase fresh bulbs each spring.
While freesias are typically treated as annuals in zones 3-8, it is possible to save the corms for the following year by following the steps outlined above. However, it’s essential to keep in mind that success may vary, and some gardeners prefer the convenience of purchasing fresh bulbs each year.
