What To Know
- Dig up the corms after the first hard frost and store them in a cool, dry place.
- In the spring, once the danger of frost has passed, replant the gladiolus corms in well-drained soil.
- Replant corms in the spring in a location with fresh soil.
Gladioli, with their tall, stately stems and vibrant blooms, are a beloved addition to any garden. While they typically bloom once per season, with proper care, you can encourage them to rebloom and extend their beauty. This comprehensive guide will provide you with step-by-step instructions on how to get gladiolus to bloom again.
Understanding Gladiolus Growth Cycle
To successfully encourage reblooming, it’s essential to understand the growth cycle of gladiolus. After flowering, the plant enters a dormant period, during which it stores energy in its corm. The corm is the bulb-like structure at the base of the stem. When conditions are favorable, the corm will produce new shoots and eventually rebloom.
Step-by-Step Guide to Reblooming Gladiolus
1. Cut Back Spent Blooms
Once the gladiolus has finished blooming, cut back the flower spikes to about 6 inches above the ground. This will prevent the plant from putting energy into seed production and encourage it to focus on corm development.
2. Fertilize for Corm Growth
After cutting back the spent blooms, fertilize the gladiolus with a balanced fertilizer. A ratio of 10-10-10 or 5-10-5 is ideal. This will provide the nutrients necessary for corm growth and reblooming.
3. Water Regularly
Gladiolus require regular watering, especially during the summer months. Water deeply at the base of the plant, avoiding the foliage. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
4. Provide Ample Sunlight
Gladiolus thrive in full sun. If possible, plant them in a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
5. Deadhead Regularly
As new flower buds appear, deadhead them once they have finished blooming. This will prevent the plant from putting energy into seed production and encourage it to produce more flowers.
6. Overwinter Properly
In cold climates, gladiolus corms must be overwintered indoors. Dig up the corms after the first hard frost and store them in a cool, dry place. Keep them at a temperature of around 40-45°F (4-7°C).
7. Replant in Spring
In the spring, once the danger of frost has passed, replant the gladiolus corms in well-drained soil. Plant the corms 4-6 inches deep and 6 inches apart. Water well after planting.
Tips for Encouraging Reblooming
- Choose varieties that are known for their reblooming potential.
- Provide optimal growing conditions, including ample sunlight, well-drained soil, and regular watering.
- Fertilize regularly to support corm growth.
- Deadhead spent blooms to encourage new flower production.
- Overwinter corms properly to ensure their survival.
- Replant corms in the spring in a location with fresh soil.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
- Gladiolus not reblooming: Ensure that you are providing optimal growing conditions, fertilizing regularly, and deadheading spent blooms.
- Gladiolus reblooming with fewer flowers: This could be due to overcrowding, insufficient sunlight, or poor soil conditions.
- Gladiolus reblooming with weak stems: This could be a sign of insufficient sunlight or nutrient deficiency.
Summary: Reblooming Gladiolus for Extended Beauty
With proper care and attention, you can encourage your gladiolus to rebloom and extend their vibrant beauty. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can enjoy the stunning blooms of these majestic flowers season after season.
What You Need to Learn
Q: How often should I fertilize gladiolus for reblooming?
A: Fertilize gladiolus every 4-6 weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Can I rebloom gladiolus from seed?
A: While it is possible to rebloom gladiolus from seed, it is not the most reliable method. Starting with corms is generally more successful.
Q: Why are my gladiolus not reblooming?
A: Common reasons for gladiolus not reblooming include insufficient sunlight, poor soil conditions, overcrowding, or lack of deadheading.
