What To Know
- Add a packet of flower food to the water to provide essential nutrients for the blooms.
- As the gladiolus blooms fade, remove them from the stem to prevent them from weighing down the flower spike.
- Store conditioned gladiolus in a cool location, such as a refrigerator, to extend their vase life.
Gladiolus, with their towering spikes of vibrant blooms, are a beloved addition to any garden. To ensure their beauty lasts, proper conditioning is essential. This guide will provide a step-by-step approach to conditioning gladiolus, maximizing their vase life and enhancing their visual appeal.
Selecting the Right Gladiolus
Begin by selecting gladiolus that are in bud or have just begun to open. Avoid flowers that are fully open, as they will have a shorter vase life. Choose stems that are firm and free of pests or diseases.
Removing Foliage
Strip the lower leaves from the stems to prevent them from rotting in water. Leave the top few leaves to support the bloom.
Cutting the Stems
Using a sharp, clean knife, cut the stems diagonally to increase water absorption. Remove about 1-2 inches from the bottom of each stem.
Hydration
Place the gladiolus in a bucket or vase filled with lukewarm water. Allow them to hydrate for several hours, or overnight if possible. This will help the stems absorb moisture and recover from the stress of cutting.
Adding Flower Food
Add a packet of flower food to the water to provide essential nutrients for the blooms. Flower food typically contains sugar, which promotes flower opening, and preservatives, which extend vase life.
Removing Spent Blooms
As the gladiolus blooms fade, remove them from the stem to prevent them from weighing down the flower spike. This will also encourage the remaining blooms to open fully.
Changing the Water
Regularly change the water in the vase to prevent bacteria growth and keep the flowers fresh. Refresh the water every 2-3 days, or more often if the water becomes cloudy.
Cool Storage
Gladiolus prefer cool temperatures. Store them in a refrigerator or other cool location overnight or for longer periods to extend their vase life.
Final Thoughts
By following these conditioning techniques, you can enjoy the beauty of gladiolus for an extended period. Remember to select fresh flowers, hydrate them thoroughly, provide nutrients, and keep them cool. With proper care, your gladiolus will continue to bloom and brighten your surroundings for days to come.
What People Want to Know
Q: How long will conditioned gladiolus last?
A: Properly conditioned gladiolus can last up to 10-14 days in a vase.
Q: Can I condition gladiolus in a vase with other flowers?
A: Yes, you can condition gladiolus with other flowers. However, avoid mixing them with ethylene-producing flowers, such as roses or lilies, as these can shorten the vase life of gladiolus.
Q: What are some tips for storing conditioned gladiolus?
A: Store conditioned gladiolus in a cool location, such as a refrigerator, to extend their vase life. Avoid placing them in direct sunlight or near heat sources.
