1.Proper soil preparation is crucial for planting bulbs successfully. Well-draining, loose soil enriched with compost or leaf mold. Ensure excellent drainage; if your soil is clay-heavy, mix in some coco peat.
2.Ensure the bulbs receive 4 to 6 hours of sunlight daily, adjusting the light exposure according to the specific variety—some prefer partial shade while others require full sun.
3.Plant bulbs at a depth two to three times their height (e.g., a 2 cm bulb goes 4–6 cm deep) with spacing depending on size, typically 5–15 cm apart.
4.Water lightly after planting, keep soil moist but not waterlogged during growth, and reduce watering after flowering to let foliage yellow and bulbs enter dormancy. 5.Apply a low-nitrogen, high-potassium fertilizer when shoots emerge and post-bloom.
6.Avoid cutting green leaves immediately after flowering to allow energy storage.
7.Prevent pests and diseases by avoiding overwatering and treating bulbs with neem oil or mild fungicide before planting.
8.Store bulbs off-season by cleaning, drying in shade, and keeping them in breathable containers at 10–20°C with moisture absorbers; avoid sealed plastic and humid conditions.
Sword Lily
Family
Iridaceae
Origin
Asia, Mediterranean & South Africa
Description
Gladiolus are beautiful plants, grown from corms or bulbs, and a favorite of many gardeners. They are perennials with striking flowers and tall long stems that grow 2 to 6 feet in height. It is also known as the Queen amongst the bulbous flowers.
Gladiolus ‘Nova Lux’ features vibrant lemon-yellow flowers with delicate buttery-gold centers that brighten any garden setting. Its large, gently ruffled blooms appear sequentially along tall, robust stems, ideal for striking garden arrangements and enduring floral displays.
Environment
Gladiolus ‘Nova Lux’ bulbs perform best in well-drained sandy-loam soil rich in organic matter, with full sun exposure for a minimum of 5 to 6 hours daily. Water moderately—apply thoroughly after planting, then maintain consistent moisture without causing waterlogging. Space corms 10 to 15 cm apart and plant them 5 to 8 cm deep for optimal development. Apply a balanced fertilizer, such as 10:10:10 NPK, at planting, then reapply when flower spikes emerge and again during blooming. Avoid overusing nitrogen, as it promotes foliage growth at the expense of flowers.
In India, the sowing period for Gladiolus varies by region:
-
Northern India (Cooler winters):
Sow from October to December (ideal: late October to November) -
Southern & Western India (Warmer winters):
Sow from September to November -
Hill stations (like Ooty, Darjeeling):
Spring planting – March to May
Gladioli generally flower 80 to 100 days after planting, with peak blooming from January to March for autumn or winter sowing in the plains, and from June to August for spring sowing in hill areas.
Landscape Use
It is a beautiful addition to any garden, and makes a wonderful container plant.