Gladiolus
Gladiolus spp.
Half-hardy corms grown for tall summer flower spikes. Plant corms in a sunny, sheltered spot after frost risk has passed, or start them in pots under cover for an earlier display.
Growing Guide
Step-by-step instructions for growing Gladiolus
Planting Calendar
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Start Corms
every 2 weeksPlant corms around . Set them with the pointed end up, at a depth of , and space them 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.
Plant Out and Stake
Move pot-grown corms into their final position from , 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.
Cut and Deadhead
From to , 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.
Lift and Store Corms
After , 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.
Companion Plants
Tap a plant to see why it works (or doesn't) with Gladiolus.
Good companions
Plants to avoid
Why companion planting matters
Companion planting can deter pests, improve pollination, and make better use of space. Some plants confuse pests or attract beneficial insects; others improve soil or offer shade to neighbours that need it.
Suggested Varieties
Popular varieties of Gladiolus to consider
Black Star
Deep burgundy-red flowers with good stem length for cutting.
Traderhorn
Classic bright red spikes, widely grown in UK gardens.
Atom
White flowers with a red edge, useful for a lighter colour scheme.
Priscilla
Large pink-and-white blooms on strong stems.
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