How Tall Do Gladiolus Get

The vividly colored elegant flowers spread out on the lofty stem are guaranteed to take your breath away – but how tall do gladiolus get? 

Gladiolus Flower

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.

The good news is you can plant gladiolus in pots and in-ground. Gladiolus originates from Africa, thus it grows best in USDA Hardiness Zones 7 to 10. 

How To Grow Tall Gladiolus

Timing

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.

Soil

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.

Watering

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.

Gladioli Height: How Tall Can They Grow?

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.

When To Fertilize Tall Gladiolus

Gladioli As Cut Flowers

Gladioli make perfect cut flowers, whether alone or when combined with other flowers.

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.

How To Stake Gladioli

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.

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How Tall Do Gladiolus Get