The gladiolus is a popular perennial that has tall, spiky flowers and comes in various different colours. Because of its shape, the gladiolus will stand out amongst other plants and flowers and will add some different shapes and textures to your borders. Here is a guide to growing these flowers:
- Plant gladioli in spring after the last frost. The ground needs to be warming up before you can consider it.
- Plant bulbs around 3-6 inches apart, and water once planted. Choose a spot that gets a lot of sunlight.
- Use mulch to protect the soil, keep it moist and prevent weeds.
- Water plants throughout the summer and don’t let the soil dry out.
- Remove dead flowers to help keep the plants healthy.
- Take the bulbs out and store them over winter – gladioli will be sensitive to frost and harsh weather.
- Take regular cuttings of flowers if desired – gladioli make excellent cut flowers.