Corm and cormel production in Freesia × hybrida as a function of planting date

Abstract

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of planting date on the production of corms and cormels in Freesia × hybrida in Tucumán, Argentina. The experiment was conducted in a high tunnel using a randomized complete block design with a factorial arrangement. Five dates were established, from February 15 to June 21, 2021, and two commercial cultivars, Blue Bayou and Yvonne, were evaluated. Growth variables related to storage organ development were measured: corm weight and diameter, number of cormels per plant, and average cormel weight. The results showed a significant interaction between cultivar and planting date for both corm weight and average cormel weight. Early planting dates (February and March) promoted the development of larger and heavier structures, while delayed planting progressively reduced the multiplication rate. Regardless of planting date, the Blue Bayou cultivar consistently produced corms with a larger diameter. It is concluded that proper management of planting date is a key factor for optimizing production efficiency and commercial propagation of Freesia.