Early Flowering Gladioli – A Comprehensive Guide

Oleh Anonymous August 17, 2023 Post a Comment

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Gladiolus plants are popular for their stunning and vibrant flowers that bloom in late summer. These flowers come in various colors, shapes, and sizes, making them a favorite among gardeners. However, not many people know about the early flowering gladioli, which blooms earlier than the usual varieties. In this article, we'll talk about everything you need to know about early flowering gladioli.

What are Early Flowering Gladioli?

Early flowering gladioli (Gladiolus nanus) are a type of gladiolus that blooms earlier in the season than other varieties. They typically blooming in late spring or early summer, usually around May. Compared to regular gladiolus, early flowering gladioli are smaller in size, growing up to 24 inches tall with shorter stems and narrower leaves. The flowers are also smaller, ranging from 2-3 inches in diameter, but they come in a wide range of colors.

How to Plant Early Flowering Gladioli

Planting early flowering gladioli is similar to planting regular gladiolus. Here's how to do it:

Choose a sunny spot in your garden with well-draining soil.
Prepare the soil by adding compost or fertilizer to improve its nutrient content.
Dig holes that are about 6 inches deep and 4-6 inches apart.
Place the corms (bulbs) in the holes with the pointed end facing upwards.
Cover the corms with soil and water them thoroughly.
Provide regular watering and fertilizing during the growing season to ensure healthy and robust plants.

When Do Early Flowering Gladioli Bloom?

Early flowering gladioli typically bloom in late spring or early summer, usually around May. They can continue blooming for several weeks until early July. The exact blooming time may vary depending on your location and climate.

The Benefits of Growing Early Flowering Gladioli

There are several benefits to growing early flowering gladioli, including:

1. Early Blooming

As the name suggests, early flowering gladioli bloom earlier than other varieties, allowing you to enjoy their beauty before the regular gladiolus blooms.

2. Variety of Colors

Early flowering gladioli come in a wide range of colors, from pale pink to deep red, making them a versatile choice for any garden.

3. Easy to Grow

Early flowering gladioli are relatively easy to grow, requiring minimal care and maintenance. They are also resistant to pests and diseases, making them an ideal choice for beginner gardeners.

Caring for Early Flowering Gladioli

Caring for early flowering gladioli is similar to caring for regular gladiolus. Here are some tips on how to take care of your plants:

1. Watering

Early flowering gladioli require regular watering, especially during dry spells. However, be careful not to overwater them, as this can cause root rot.

2. Fertilizing

Provide regular fertilizing during the growing season to promote healthy growth and robust blooms. Use a balanced fertilizer with a higher phosphorus content to encourage blooming.

3. Staking

Since early flowering gladioli have shorter stems than regular gladiolus, they may require staking to keep them upright. Use bamboo stakes or other sturdy supports to prevent the plants from bending or breaking.

Early flowering gladioli are a beautiful and versatile addition to any garden. They offer a variety of colors and bloom earlier in the season than other varieties, allowing you to enjoy their beauty before the regular gladiolus blooms. With proper care and maintenance, these plants can thrive and produce stunning flowers year after year.

FAQs

1. How do I know when to plant early flowering gladioli?

You should plant early flowering gladioli in the spring, usually around April or May, depending on your location and climate.

2. How deep should I plant early flowering gladioli?

Plant early flowering gladioli about 6 inches deep and 4-6 inches apart, with the pointed end facing upwards.

3. Can I grow early flowering gladioli in containers?

Yes, you can grow early flowering gladioli in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the corms and has good drainage.

4. How often should I water my early flowering gladioli?

Early flowering gladioli require regular watering, especially during dry spells. However, be careful not to overwater them, as this can cause root rot.

5. How do I store early flowering gladioli bulbs for the winter?

After the growing season, carefully dig up the corms and remove any excess soil. Allow them to dry in a warm, dry place for several days before storing them in a cool, dark location until the next planting season.