How to Grow Gladiolus

Native to the Mediterranean and Africa, the gladiolus is a perennial bulbous plant, ranging from 30 cm to 1 m in height. The flowers, clustered in a single spike per bulb, are tubular, with a so-called "trumpet" shape. They have a long stem, and can be a single color or two or three different colors, with the darkest petal tip becoming lighter toward the tip. The shades, which tend toward pastel hues, range from white to golden yellow, and from light blue to blue. In an arrangement, gladioli pair very well with dahlias and to lilies.

Thanks to its adaptability, gladioli are easy to grow, both in the open ground and in a pot. With their unique flower colors, this plant brightens up any terrace, garden, or balcony.

Index of topics

Exposure and climate

Gladiolus loves mild temperatures and is extremely sensitive to cold. It requires light, but when the sun is too strong, it prefers shaded locations.

Land and cultivation care

This beautiful flower grows well in any soil, although it prefers loose, well-drained soil, where water flows easily, rich in humus and slightly acidic. The soil should be fertilized with organic fertilizer Before planting. In the early stages of its growth, the plant needs a stake.

How to grow gladiolus in a pot

To grow gladiolus in a pot, simply add expanded clay to the bottom of the container and fertilize frequently before flowering. Repotting should be done every four to five years, and the soil should be at least 12 centimeters deep.

Watering

Gladiolus needs a lot of water, like theazalea: the watering they must be constant, but stagnation must be avoided.

Sowing and flowering

The bulbs are planted in spring, between March and April, to prevent the plants from being damaged by sudden frosts. If you grow gladiolus outdoors, keep the plants about 15-20 centimeters apart to avoid them being too close together. Flowering occurs from May to October: harvest the gladioli early in the morning, and remove the foliage after flowering. dry leaves e withered flowers.

Flowers to match with gladiolus

Gladiolus is a flower that pairs well with autumn perennials, especially dahlias and lilies. Keep in mind that gladiolus bulbs should be planted in groups of ten to twenty, at least six to ten centimeters apart.

Problems and remedies

Gladiolus bulbs, if they absorb too much moisture, can be subject to attacks from various types of fungi: in this case, it's best to treat them with a fungicide. Other possible enemies include the bulb fly, red spider mite, and other types of fungi. plant lice: in all cases use specific products.

Gladiolus: the flower that brings joy