Gladioli come in an assortment of different colours, from crisp whites to soft greens to deep purples and vivid mixtures or pinks, reds and oranges. Gladioli typically have long non-branching stems with sword-shaped grooved leaves along with medium to large flower spikes that can produce from a handful to a mass of flowers (depending on variety).
Planting Calendar
Gladioli are grown from corms that are normally planted between September to December.
Prepare
Position
Gladioli prefer a sheltered position in full sun. The root system of gladioli is quite shallow, and can topple the plant in windy conditions. Flower stalks need staking for support as they can get top heavy.
Soil
Plant gladioli corms in well draining soil with plenty of organic matter. Mix Kings Compost into your existing soil at a 50/50 ratio, add Sheep Pellets and Kings Slow Release Bulb Food, then mix together. Firm the soil down gently and water in well with Aquaticus Organic Garden Booster. In heavier clay soils, where drainage is likely to be an issue, plant onto a raised mound and sprinkle Gypsum Clay Breaker into the bottom of the hole, this helps slowly condition the soil and help to break down the clay. When planting into containers, plant into Kings Potting mix. Then water in with Aquaticus Garden Booster.
Plant
Plant your Gladioli Corms 8-10cm deep and 15cm apart.Gladioli will flower approximately 100 days after planting. Stagger planting for a continuous display. Plant in groups for best effect.
Care
Watering
Water well after planting to get them started and keep them moist throughout the growing period. Ensure that the soil is not water logged.
Feeding
Gladioli need little fertiliser. Feed at planting time with Kings slow release Bulb Food.
Protecting
Protect new growth from slugs and snails with Tui Quash
Spraying
Gladioli are prone to rust, at first sign of infection spray with an Kiwicare Organic Super Sulphur. Spray in the evening to avoid harming beneficial insects. Thrips can also be a problem in hot dry environments, spray with Mavrik at first sign of pests.
General Care
When using sprays, chemicals or fertilisers always read the label and follow the instructions. Apply sprays in the evening to avoid harming beneficial insects.
Beginner Tip
Unlike many bulbs, you do not need to wait for the leaves to die completely back before cutting them down for winter. While flowering, you can also cut the flowers and use these in vases or even bouquets.
Expert Tip
It is best to dig up your Gladioli bulbs in autumn. This is done to prevent the bulbs dying out in winter from too much moisture. Gently lift your bulbs six to eight weeks after flowering has finished in autumn. Remove any foliage that remains and store the bulbs in a paper bag in a cupboard to dry out for 2 weeks. Then store in a cool dry place over Winter and replant in Spring.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I cut the flowers for an arrangement?
Cut the stems of the semi-opened flowers and buds at least 20cm down the stalk. Do not cut the leaves, as the bulbs needs to reabsorb this energy to regrow next year.
When is the best time to plant gladioli?
Plant gladioli corms in late spring after the risk of frost has passed.
Do gladioli prefer sun or shade?
Gladioli thrive in full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
How often should I water gladioli?
Water well after planting to get them started and keep them moist throughout the growing period. Ensure that the soil is not water logged.
How do I support tall gladioli stems?
Use stakes or plant supports to keep tall stems upright and prevent them from bending or breaking.
