Planting Gladioli

Where to plant gladioli?

Gladioli, with their magnificent flower spikes, can truly brighten up a garden! Here are some tips for choosing the best spot to plant them:

• Sun, sun and more sun: Gladioli love the sun! They need at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day to flower well. So choose a sunny spot in your garden.
• Wind protection: Gladioli stems can grow quite tall and are prone to breaking in the wind. Try planting them in a sheltered location or plan to stake them for support.
• Crop rotation: If you plant gladioli year after year, try changing their location to avoid soil-borne diseases that could affect the bulbs.

Which planting substrate for your gladioli?

They thrive in rich, fertile but well-drained soil, sandy or stony, and are not overly bothered by chalky soils but dislike winter wet. To prevent the bulbs from rotting, if your soil is heavy or clay-based, consider improving drainage by adding compost or sand.

When and How to Plant Gladiolus Bulbs

• Plant in full sun, hollow side facing downwards.
• For maximum visual impact, plant gladiolus bulbs in groups of 7 or more. This creates a beautiful massed effect rather than scattered flowers here and there.
• Space bulbs or corms 10-15 cm apart and cover with 10 cm of well-draining soil or pure sand.
• Fertilise in autumn after cutting the flowers. Avoid using manure as it promotes bulb rot.
• Gladioli have very poor hardiness in heavy soil – they should be lifted when faded or immediately after the first frosts. Cut the leaves and allow to dry in a well-ventilated area for three weeks. Remove the old bulbs. Store the new bulbs and bulbils throughout winter in a cool but frost-free location. The bulbils will flower in two years’ time.

Remember, gladioli make superb cut flowers too, so don’t hesitate to plant some in a corner of your vegetable garden or in a dedicated cutting garden. This way you can enjoy their beautiful colours both indoors and outdoors!