Fragrant Freesias: Germinating the Seeds

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXIII, Issue 22540, 3 October 1936, Page 10 (Supplement)

Fragrant Freesias: Germinating the Seeds

FiTWEEN the old type of freesia refracta alha and the modern hybrid strains, which have been evolved by plant breeders, there is as much difference as there is between the common bluebell and a Dutch hyacinth. Even the old white freesia is a delightful flower, but its chief charm is fragrance. It is not generally known that really fine freesia blooms can be obtained from seed in eight months after it has been sown. From seed sown in November it is possible to have freesias in bloom the following winter. Freesia seed is often found to give slow and indifferent germination, but the following method will be found an easy one to carry out and will ensure good results. About the end of November place a piece of wet flannel or blotting paper on the bottom of a tin box. Lay the seeds on the flannel and place another piece of wet flannel on the top and close the lid. Now place the box in awy odd corner where the sun will not reach it. The reason for doing this is that the seed requires a damp, cool atmosphere in which to germinate. After 18 days the box should be examined at intervals, and any seeds which may have

sprouted should bo takon out and planted, cither in boxes or in their permanent positions. Freesia seed, being fairly large, is easily handled, and co,n bo picked up and transferred to now quarters without any damage or risk of root disturbance, which is inevitable if thev are sown as other seeds are—in a quantity close together. The correct compost in which to plant the sprouted seed is one made up of loam, one-half, one-quarter sand and one-quarter peat and a littlo line bonemenl. Plant ono inch below th« surface. The seedlings make littlo top growth at first, but as tho autumn comes on growth is more rapid. They may bo placed direct into pots if desired, and make an excellent addition to the winter decoration of the home or greenhouse. In this case, the pots, which have been kept in a shady position out of doors for the summer, should be brought under cover in April and placed in a position where they will get all the sun possible and plenty of air. for the freesias dislike any coddling. When tho flowed spikes appear, watering with weak liquid manure will bo appreciated.