Gladiolus is a classic perennial cormous flowering plant known for its majestic spikes and colorful blooms. Its name was derived from the Latin word gladius, which means sword. That’s why it also goes by its popular nickname, sword lily. Gladioli are a favorite in summer bouquets as they provide a striking effect with their rich and colorful blooms and jaw-dropping erect lines. What’s more amazing is that they’re very easy to grow! With a little work, you can grow gladiolus and add a beautiful accent to your garden with their bright and cheerful colors. Aside from their aesthetic properties, these flowers also have a sentimental side to them. Gladiolus signifies infatuation, likening the receiver to someone who pierces the other one’s heart. Doesn’t matter whether in borders, containers, or used as cut flowers. They always provide that spectacular effect! Here are some ways and tips on how to plant gladiolus:
Choosing and Preparing the Location
- For the best flowering results, plant gladiolus on a sunny spot in your garden.
- Gladioli prefer well-drained and moderately moist soil. They also adapt to almost any soil with the exception of clay.
- Use a garden fork to get the soil ready by loosening it to about 12-15 inches deep then mix in a 2-4 inch layer of compost.
How to Plant Gladiolus
- Choose large corms of about 1 ¼ inch in diameter or larger to produce a bigger plant with heftier blooms.
- Place the corms 5-8 inches apart from each other. Some gardeners usually plant them too far apart; however, planting them closer will enable them to help stabilize one another. This means a lesser need for you to stake them.
- Set the gladiolus corm 4-inch deep inside the hole with the sprout facing upwards.Cover it with soil and water afterwards and tamp down firmly.
- If planted with other flowers, plant the corms in groups of 7 or more for the best results.
- If you’re planting tall varieties, make sure to provide them with support and stake them at planting time.
You didn’t think planting gladioli could be this easy, right? Me neither! Once planted, they should grow well with little attention, provided that you maintain the soil moisture without overwatering. As they begin to bloom, be sure to remove dying flowers to shift the plant’s energy into its continuous growth. Gladiolus is a great flower to add to your orchard especially when you really come to appreciate the things it has to offer other than its beauty.
Gladiolus Bulbs in Pots
If you are one of those people who desire to plant gladiolus in pots and was wondering if this is possible, fret no more: it is possible! First, you will need to choose a gladiolus type that you would like to plant in the pot, preferably a smaller or shorter variety since it will have a greater chance of surviving as opposed to the larger ones which are more prone to breaking. Before you start planting, you will need a container that’s 12 inches (30.5 cm) deep and 12 inches (30.5 cm) in diameter. It needs to be deep enough for the bulb and allow for more space to cover it with enough soil. It will also be in need of drainage holes to avoid failure in growing and to avoid corms rotting in the process. To plant gladiolus bulbs in pots, set them in the soil 3 to 6 inches (7.5-15 cm) deep and 2 to 3 inches (5-7.5 cm) apart. After planting, water them well so the soil will settle around the bulbs.
Soaking Gladiolus Bulbs Before Planting
Gladiolus stems from underground, bulb-like structures known as corms. In his book “Growing Flowers for Profit”, author Craig Wallin recommends soaking the corms in plain tap water a day before planting. Soaking gladiolus bulbs before planting allows suitable corms to absorb adequate water in order to aid immediate growth, saving two to three weeks of time.
Bloom Time of Gladiolus
There is no definite bloom time for gladioli. Always keep in mind that planting time determines bloom time, so instead of planting your corms all at once, you might want to buy just enough so you can plant a few of them every week from spring up to early summer. It usually takes 10 to 12 weeks from planting to flowering, so the bloom time of gladiolus differs from one gardener to another. Planting varied species of gladioli with a different height and color allows for more variety and is an alternative way to extend the flowering season.
Taking Care of Gladiolus After They Bloom
Congratulations! You have now successfully seen your gladioli in full bloom. Here’s how to properly take care of them after blooming:
- Cut off the flower stem at its base after all the buds have flowered and completed blooming. Use sharp shears to remove the stem.
- Water the plants weekly after blooming. Give more water during hot weather for the plants not to wilt.
- Weed in between the gladioli weekly or as necessary to keep weeds from robbing the soil of its nutrients.
Gladiolus pants are a smart choice especially if you value the space in your garden. Their root system is limited, hence the need for a small space for their bodies which extend upwards. Glaidoli’s vertical accent matched with their colorful blooms are just some of its assets no gardener can refuse. They are a must-have as they also make for great vegetable garden companions. Their attractive flowers will attract pollinating insects and help with your tomato yields and they can be great colorful borders to be planted in between vegetables. Many gardeners prefer to plant them alongside good flowering companion plants like zinnias and dahlias. Gladioli also make for good cut flowers, try them with your floral arrangements and witness the vibrance they can bring at any occasions! Refer to this article on how to plant gladiolus and you never have to worry again about what your garden is missing.
