How to Grow Gladiola Flowers

Dig gladiolas for winter storage in all but the warmest climates

Gladiolus x hortulanus, also known as gladiolus or gladiola, are favorites of many gardeners. Their easy maintenance and amazingly colorful blooming habit make gladiolus an excellent choice for seasoned and amateur gardeners alike. Grown from corms and tolerant of most soil conditions, gladiolas are a welcome addition to any flower garden.

Things You'll Need

• Gladiola corms (also known as bulbs)

Instructions

1. Dig a 3- to 5-inch hole for each corm in a prepared garden bed after the soil has warmed to at least 50 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the corm into the bottom of the hole and cover with soil. Space the bulbs 3 to 6 inches apart. Gladiolas grow in almost any soil. However, they prefer moist, well-drained soil in full sun.

2. Gladiolas do not compete with weeds successfully. Weed the flower bed regularly or mulch to limit weed growth. When the plants emerge from the soil, side dress with a 5-10-10 fertilizer.

3. Give the gladiolas an abundant and steady amount of water -- at least 1 inch a week, more in hotter weather.

4. Spray an all-purpose insecticide when the plants reach 6 inches tall. Aphids, thrips and corm borers are the most common insect pests. Gladiolas are also susceptible to fusarium rot, rust, dry rot and grey mold. All of these can be treated with organic or synthetic pesticides as needed.

5. Grow gladiolas as annuals in most areas of the country and dig the corms for storage before a hard freeze. Cut the tops to one inch above the corm. Allow the corms to air dry and store at 35 to 40 degrees Fahrenheit. Gladiolas can overwinter in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 9 and warmer.

Tips & Warnings

• Make successive plantings at two week intervals to ensure continuous blooms and cut flower opportunities.

References

• North American Gladiolus Council: Growing Gladiolus Flowers
• Pleasant Valley Glads & Dahlias: Information