Gladiola are one of the more majestic flowering bulbs. Herbaceous perennial bulbs that overwinter in temperate and tropical climes and are hardy in USDA Zones 8a through 10b, gladiola bloom in early and mid-summer in most climates. The flower spikes grow on thick stalks up to 48 inches in height, with lower foliage that is slim flat, tapered and pale to medium green. Does this Spark an idea?
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Sun Exposure and Soil Requirements
- Gladiola thrive in full sun but will tolerate a few hours of daily shade or dappled sunlight. Prepare a planting bed of well-tilled, rich, moist, well-drained soil with a mildly acidic to neutral pH between 6.1 and 6.5. If you need to amend the soil to bump up the acidity, mix in some sphagnum peat moss or gypsum.
Bulb Placement and Mulch
- Gladiolus bulbs should be planted in early to mid-spring after all threats of frost have passed. Space bulbs at intervals of 6 to 9 inches and at a depth of 6 to 8 inches. Water the bulbs at planting, then do not water again until a few inches of green shoots begin to emerge through the soil. Mulch with shredded bark or compost to preserve moisture
Watering and Fertilizing Requirements
- Continually observe soil moisture levels throughout the season, watering when the soil feels slightly dry an inch or so down. You want moist soil, but overly wet dirt can easily rot the bulbs. Fertilize once or twice a month with a good quality, balanced and water-soluble formula according to the manufacturer's instructions.
When gladiolus blooms fade, cease feeding and reduce watering by at least half to preserve the bulbs for next year and prevent rot.
Read more: Gladiolus Bulb Planting | eHow http://www.ehow.com/way_5256617_gladiolus-bulb-planting.html#ixzz2SwVM6BuV
Read more: Gladiolus Bulb Planting | eHow http://www.ehow.com/way_5256617_gladiolus-bulb-planting.html#ixzz2SwVEWoUP
Read more: Gladiolus Bulb Planting | eHow http://www.ehow.com/way_5256617_gladiolus-bulb-planting.html#ixzz2SwV6TSJS
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