The name gladiolus comes from the Latin word gladius, meaning sword. You’ll often find people referring to gladiolus as sword lilies due to their shape.
Plant the corms in spring after the last frost has passed. The soil’s temperature needs to reach 55°F before planting. Gladiolus need 2 to 3 months to root, grow and bloom.
Gladioli don’t need overly rich and hard soil. They will grow best in mildly fertile and well-draining soil. A water-soaked ground can lead the corms to rot before they even develop. When planting in pots, choose containers with several drainage holes.
Gladiolus has a moderate need for water. If you have them in the ground, and you get less than an inch of rain weekly, water regularly. It’s essential to keep the soil moist when the gladioli are blooming. You can use mulch around the plant to help it retain moisture during summer.
Gladiolus can grow 2 to 5 feet tall in optimal conditions. There are over 260 species, so you can find shorter and taller exemplars. The commonly grown gladiolus are significantly taller than other garden flowers, so it’s best to plant them near a fence or wall.
Gladiolus need fertilizing 2 to 3 times during the season. First, add compost or manure to the ground before planting the corms. If you don’t have any, go for slow-release plant food.
You can’t control the outdoor weather, so it’s better to be safe than sorry. Provide support for the tall stems before the wind catches a chance to bend or even snap them.
Gladiolus are elegant plants with colorful flowers that make perfect cut flowers. They can grow anywhere from 2 to over feet tall, depending on the type. It’s crucial to stake them to prevent breaking once the plant is fully developed.