Gladioli, also known as gladiolus or sword lilies, are beautiful flowering plants that add a splash of color to any garden or landscape. One of the great things about gladioli is that they bloom for an extended period, typically from July until the first frost of the season. However, it’s important to note that gladioli do not bloom continuously throughout this time period. Instead, they have a specific bloom cycle that can be extended by planting new corms every two weeks.
The blooming season of gladioli is influenced by various factors, including the specific variety of gladiolus, the climate of the region, and the care provided to the plants. In general, gladioli start to bloom in mid to late summer when the weather is warm and the days are longer. This is usually around the month of July.
As the summer progresses, more and more gladioli will begin to bloom, creating a stunning display of vibrant colors in the garden. The bloom time of each individual gladiolus flower can vary, but on average, a gladiolus bloom can last for about one to two weeks. During this time, the flowers will be at their peak, showcasing their beauty and fragrance.
To ensure a continuous blooming season for gladioli, it is recommended to plant new corms every two weeks. Corms are the underground storage organs of gladioli, similar to bulbs. By staggering the planting of new corms, you can ensure a steady supply of blooming gladioli throughout the entire season.
Planting new corms every two weeks allows for a succession of blooms, as each batch of corms will mature and bloom at different times. This technique is commonly referred to as “succession planting” and is used to extend the blooming season of many types of flowers and vegetables.
When planting gladiolus corms, it’s important to choose a location that receives full sun for at least six to eight hours a day. Gladioli prefer well-drained soil and should be planted at a depth of about 4 to 6 inches. It’s also a good idea to plant the corms in groups or clusters rather than single rows, as this will create a more visually appealing display when the flowers bloom.
In addition to regular watering, gladioli may benefit from the application of a balanced fertilizer every few weeks during the growing season. This can help promote healthy growth and abundant blooms. It’s also important to remove any spent flowers or flower stalks to encourage new blooms to form.
In my personal experience, planting gladioli corms every two weeks has been a successful strategy for extending the blooming season. I have enjoyed a continuous display of gladiolus flowers throughout the summer and into the fall by following this method. It’s always a delight to see new blooms opening up as the older ones fade away.
Gladioli typically bloom from July until the first frost of the season. However, the blooming season can be extended by planting new corms every two weeks. This succession planting technique ensures a continuous display of colorful gladiolus flowers throughout the summer and into the fall. By providing the right care and attention, you can enjoy the beauty and fragrance of gladioli in your garden for months on end.
