Gladiolus is a flowering perennial plant that produces bulbs known as corms. Gladiolus is widely known for its unique flower spikes and colorful blooms.
One of the common questions often asked among lovers of gladiolus bulbs is; “can I leave my gladiolus bulbs in the ground?” Yes, you can leave gladiolus corms in the ground if there is no frost present in the region you live in, at least at a temperature of 550F (300C).
Gladiolus bulbs do not do well in colder regions and should be protected during winter.
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Can I Leave Gladiolus Bulbs In The Ground?
Like I mentioned earlier, gladiolus bulbs can stay in the ground through winter in warmer areas, but that is only if a hard freeze (28°F or colder) is not common in your region.
In colder zones (Zone 7 or colder), we'll advise you to dig up gladioli corms once the foliage has faded when the first fall frost is over.
Propagation of Gladiolus Corms
Not all seasons are favorable for the propagation of gladiolus corms. According to the United States Department of Agriculture USDA classification of zones, "each zone has its peculiar temperatures."
During winter in zone 8, a layer of dry grasses should be provided to protect gladiolus. You can leave your gladiolus corms to stay in the ground in warmer regions as long as a strong freeze of 280F or colder is not experienced in your zone.
However, in zone 7 or colder regions, ensure to dig up your gladiolus corms the moment the leaves have faded at the first fall frost so that they will not be damaged by a hard freeze.
- Plant corms that have a bigger diameter
- Place the corm in the hole of about 4-inches deep ensuring the pointed side faces up
- Give space of 6 to 8 inches apart
- For cut flowers, plant them in rows. It is much easier to care for them and also to harvest the flowers
- Ensure to adequately water during planting.
How to Preserve Gladiolus Corm
If you're also wondering about the best way to preserve gladiolus corm, below are the necessary steps to take:
- Carefully dig them from the ground where they are planted
- Trim the stem any leave off using a sterilized shears
- Ensure to shake off dirt and sand that are stock to the base
- Spread on a clean surface like newspaper and allow to dry for about three weeks
- Store in a cool, dry spot about freezing or between the temperatures of 40 degrees F
- Or store in an unheated platform (basement)
Conclusion
In zones 7 to 10 of USDA plant hardness, gladiolus corms can stay in the ground all year long being a perennial plant.
However, it will bloom better if you remove them from the ground during fall and store them indoors till the next planting season.
Gladiolus bulbs are beautiful flowering plants that grow from the corm. The corms are flatter in shape.
Gladiolus corms are best planted when the soil temperature is around 55 degrees Fahrenheit or two weeks before spring frost.
Can I leave gladiolus bulbs in the ground? Yes, you can if all conditions are satisfied.
Related Posts:
- How To Tell If You Overwatered a Succulent
- How Long For Gladiolus Bulbs To Sprout?
- Can I Plant Gladiolus Bulbs in March?
