Gladiolus

For the best blooms, plant glads in full sun (6 to 8 hours of sunlight per day) in well-drained soil that’s moderately fertile. They will not do well in heavy, soggy soil. Mix compost (humus) into your soil to improve consistency and fertility.

Depending on the variety, it takes between 60 and 90 days from the time glads are planted for the corms to root, grow, and bloom.

• Start planting gladiolus corms in the spring once the danger of frost has passed and the soil has warmed to at least 55°F. See your local frost dates here.
• From your last frost date to early summer, plant another round of corms every ten days or so. This will result in continuous blooms through early fall!
• Ready your garden by using a garden fork or tiller to loosen the soil to about 12 to 15 inches deep. After loosening the soil, mix in a 2- to 4-inch layer of compost or aged manure.
• To ensure large-sized blooms, plant corms that are 1¼ inch or larger in diameter.
• Set the corm in the hole about 6-8 inches deep with the pointed end facing up. Cover with soil and press firmly.
• Space the corms 6 to 8 inches apart.
• If you grow gladioli primarily for cut flowers, plant them in rows. It’s easier to tend the plants and to harvest the flowers.
• If planted with other flowers in borders or annual beds, plant the corms in groups of 7 or more for the best effect.
• Water the corms thoroughly at planting.
• If you’re planting tall varieties, be sure to stake them at planting time. Be careful not to damage the corms with the stakes.

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