Growing Gladiolus

Growing gladiolus bulbs is easy. The make wonderful cutting flowers and are moderate water users, making them welcome additions to a water-thrifty garden. Their tall, narrow growth habit makes them easy to add just about anywhere, for a vertical pop of color. Native to southern Africa, Gladiolus is hardy in zones 8-10, and can be grown as annuals in zones 7 and colder. With a bit of extra care, most of us can enjoy these beautiful flowers for years.

Tips For Growing Gladiolus

Gladiolus looks best planted in dense groups. They propagate by corms, which are similar to bulbs in many ways. They have a bottom (basal plate) that will sprout roots - the other side, where you should see one or more growing points, should be planted up.

Gladiolus bloom for about two weeks, so many gardeners plant sections of Gladiolus at two week intervals to extend the flower season.

Cut flowers as you like, but be mindful not to cut too many leaves, as the leaves feed the new corms.

Light: Plant them in full sun, in the spring, when the soil has begun to warm.

Soil: Well-drained soil is a must, as Glads don’t like soggy feet.

How To Plant Gladiolus

Following the recommendations on your package, simply dig holes at the suggesting spacing.
Plant the corms 6-7 inches deep and about 6" apart. We recommend using at least 12 corms per planting. They not only look better en masse, but they also support each other as they grow.
Water well and water periodically as growth progresses.

After Season Care For Gladiolus Bulbs (Corms)

In zones 8-10, you can leave Gladiolus bulbs (corms) in the ground for an easy-to-grow flower that returns each season. If you live in zones 8-10, your Gladiolus bulbs will rest for several months before starting their cycle again.

If you are in zones 3-7, you can either treat your Gladiolus as an annual, replanting new corms in the following spring, or you can dig the corms to store for winter.

How To Dig & Store Gladiolus Bulbs (Corms)

It’s easy to do, and you’ll have an unending supply of beautiful flowers for very little effort.

Once the leaves have yellowed and after the first frost, cut the stems to 2 inches.
Wash the soil off and dry for a few days.
Store in a cool place in paper bags or cardboard boxes with 1-2 inches of vermiculite.
Be sure to label your corms so you know what you’ll be planting come spring.

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