Gladioluses in Barnston

Plant corms around 14th February - 17th May. Set them with the pointed end up, at a depth of 10 cm, and space them 15 cm apart. Keep the earliest sowings under cover in pots if frost is still a risk, then stagger further plantings every 14 days for a longer display.

Move pot-grown corms into their final position from 30th April, once the soil has warmed and frost risk has passed. Water them in thoroughly straight after planting, then put in canes or discreet supports before the stems get tall so wind does not rock the corms loose.

From 30th July to 22nd October, cut spikes for the house when the lowest florets begin to open. Remove spent flowers regularly and keep the stem base fed and watered in dry spells so more blooms follow.

After 22nd October - 5th November, once frost has blackened the foliage, cut the stems down, lift the corms and dry them for a few days in a warm airy place. Store them frost-free in dry compost or peat-free dry material. In mild areas with free-draining soil, a thick dry mulch can sometimes be enough to keep them in place.