Quick summary

Gladiolus , with their strike stiletto heel ofvibrant flush , are abeloved additionto any garden . However , as fall coming , it ’s crucial to prepare these tender bulbs for the harsh winter months . Thiscomprehensive guidewill leave you with all the necessary footstep on how to get gladiolus ready for winter , ensuring their survival and future flower potential .

1. Digging Up Gladiolus Bulbs

Once the foliage hasturned yellowand withered , around the first frost , it ’s clip to labor up the gladiolus electric light . Use agarden forkor shovel tocarefully liftthe entire clump of bulbs , being aware not to damage them . sway off excess grime and allow the incandescent lamp to air - dry in a shaded area for a few days .

2. Removing Foliage and Roots

Once the bulbs have dried , remove any remaining foliation andexcess roots . Usesharp shearsto trim the leafage to about 1 in above the bulb . Discard any diseased or damaged bulb .

3. Curing Gladiolus Bulbs

The next stride is to cure thegladiolus bulbs , which helps them develop aprotective outer layer . Place the bulb in a well - air out areawith temperatures between 70 - 80 ° F ( 21 - 27 ° blow ) for two to three weeks . This process allow the bulbs to heal any wounds and prepare for storage .

4. Cleaning and Disinfecting Gladiolus Bulbs

After curing , clean the bulb bygently removinganyremaining soilor debris . Disinfect the medulla oblongata by soaking them in a solution of 10 % blanching agent for 30 minutes . Thisstep aid prevent diseaseand fungus .

5. Drying Gladiolus Bulbs

Once the bulbs have been disinfect , rinse off them thoroughly with water and permit them to dry out completely . diffuse the lightbulb on aclean paper towelormesh screenin a well - ventilated expanse . Avoid exposing them to direct sunlight .

6. Storing Gladiolus Bulbs

Store the dry gladiolus bulbs in a cool , dark , and dry place with temperature between 40 - 50 ° F ( 4 - 10 ° C ) . Optimal repositing conditions include arelative humidityof around 70 % . practice a breathable container , such as a mesh bag orcardboard box , to permit for line circulation .

7. Monitoring Gladiolus Bulbs During Storage

ascertain thegladiolus bulbs periodicallyduring storage to ensure they remain intelligent . Remove any bulbs that show signs of bunk or disease . If thebulbs startto shrivel , slightly increasethe humidity in the storage country .

Frequently Asked Questions

Q : Can Ileave gladiolus bulbsin the land over winter?A : Only inUSDA hardiness zones8 and above . Incolder zones , the bulbs will probably freeze and rot . Q : What should I do if mygladiolus bulbsare damaged during digging?A : Discard anybadly damaged bulbs . Slightly discredited bulb can be healed in the heal summons . Q : How long can I store gladiolus bulbs?A : Properly stored gladiolus bulbscan last for several eld . However , it ’s best to plant them within one or two years for optimal anthesis . Q : What should I do withgladiolus cormsthat have sprouted during storage?A : If the sprout are small , you’re able to implant thecorms immediately . If the sprouts are large , murder them and store the corm in a tank emplacement . Q : How do Iprepare gladiolus bulbsfor planting in spring?A : About two week before planting , remove the bulb from storage and plant them in a well - drained dirt mix . Keep thebulbs warmand moist until they sprout .