What To Know
- Plant the corms in the spring, as soon as the soil has warmed to at least 55°F (13°C).
- Cut the stems with a sharp knife or shears, leaving a few leaves at the base of the plant.
Gladiolus, with their vibrant hues and stately spires, are a captivating addition to any garden. As cut flowers, they bring a touch of elegance and drama to bouquets and arrangements. Growing gladiolus specifically for cut flowers requires careful planning and attention to detail. This comprehensive guide will provide you with the essential steps and techniques to cultivate magnificent gladiolus blooms that will grace your vases for weeks to come.
Site Selection and Preparation
Gladiolus thrive in full sun and well-drained soil. Choose a location with at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. The soil should be loose and fertile, with a pH between 6.5 and 7.5. Amend the soil with compost or manure to improve drainage and fertility.
Planting Gladiolus Corms
Gladiolus are planted from corms, which are small, round structures that resemble onions. Plant the corms in the spring, as soon as the soil has warmed to at least 55°F (13°C). Dig a hole about 6 inches deep and space the corms 4-6 inches apart. Plant the corms with the pointed end up and cover them with soil.
Watering and Fertilizing
Water the gladiolus plants regularly, especially during hot, dry weather. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to corm rot. Fertilize the plants every few weeks with a balanced fertilizer.
Supporting the Plants
Gladiolus plants can grow quite tall, especially the taller varieties. To prevent them from toppling over, provide support by staking them or tying them to a trellis.
Pest and Disease Control
Gladiolus are susceptible to a few common pests and diseases. Aphids, thrips, and spider mites can infest the plants, while fungal diseases such as botrytis and fusarium wilt can cause damage. Monitor the plants regularly for signs of pests or diseases and treat them promptly with appropriate pesticides or fungicides.
Harvesting Gladiolus for Cut Flowers
Gladiolus are ready to harvest for cut flowers when the bottom two or three florets on the spike are open. Cut the stems with a sharp knife or shears, leaving a few leaves at the base of the plant.
Postharvest Care
To extend the vase life of your gladiolus cut flowers, remove any foliage that will be below the water line in the vase. Place the stems in a vase filled with fresh water and add a floral preservative. Keep the flowers in a cool, shaded location.
Growing Gladiolus for Specific Cut Flower Needs
For Long-Stemmed Flowers: Choose varieties such as ‘King’s Lynn’ or ‘Purple Flora‘ that produce long, strong stems.
For Early Blooms: Plant early-flowering varieties such as ‘Early Queen‘ or ‘Blushing Bride’ for blooms in late spring or early summer.
For Late Blooms: Plant late-flowering varieties such as ‘Autumn Queen‘ or ‘Black Beauty’ for blooms in late summer or early fall.
For a Variety of Colors: Gladiolus come in a wide range of colors, including white, pink, red, orange, yellow, and purple. Select varieties that complement each other to create vibrant and eye-catching bouquets.
Tips for Success
- Use high-quality corms to ensure healthy and vigorous plants.
- Plant the corms at the correct depth and spacing.
- Water the plants regularly and fertilize them every few weeks.
- Support the plants with stakes or a trellis to prevent them from toppling over.
- Monitor the plants for pests and diseases and treat them promptly.
- Harvest the flowers when the bottom two or three florets on the spike are open.
- Use a floral preservative in the vase to extend the vase life of the flowers.
FAQs
Q: When is the best time to plant gladiolus corms?
A: Plant the corms in the spring, as soon as the soil has warmed to at least 55°F (13°C).
Q: How deep should I plant the corms?
A: Plant the corms about 6 inches deep.
Q: How far apart should I space the corms?
A: Space the corms 4-6 inches apart.
Q: How often should I water the gladiolus plants?
A: Water the plants regularly, especially during hot, dry weather.
Q: How can I prevent the gladiolus plants from toppling over?
A: Support the plants with stakes or a trellis.
