Growing Glorious Gladiolus

Gladiolus are some of the easiest and showiest mid to late-summer flower you can grow. A true classic and old-fashioned favourite, there's nothing more reassuring than the blooms that appeared in my grandmother's garden. Gladiolus are one of those flowers that are enjoying a renaissance, and I couldn't be any more excited!

Begin with large-sized, top-quality corms.

Plant gladiolus corms in the spring once the soil has warmed up and the risk of frost has passed.

Select a planting site in full sun and well-draining soil.

For best visual impact in the garden border, plant gladioli in groupings of no less than 10. If you're planning to grow for cutting, then long, narrow beds with corms planted in rows are most efficient.

Mix in a layer of compost into the planting site. Plant corms 4 inches deep with pointed end facing up. Space the corms 6 to 8 inches apart.

Thoroughly water in the corms. While gladiolus are relatively low maintenance, continue to water throughout the season if rain isn’t expected.

For cut flowers, harvest stems early in the morning as this is when flowers are most hydrated. For best vase life, harvest stalks when the first one or two flowers have begun to open. The remainder of the buds will open in the vase. Remove lower flowers as they fade.