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.
Daily
Water Requirement
Red
Flower Color
Non Fragrant
Fragrance
Winter
Flowering Season
Gladiolus
Genus
Medium
Maintenance
No
With Pots
Small
Size
Outdoor Shade,Outdoor Sun
Sunlight Requirement
Balcony,Low Maintenance
Use
Sword Lily
Family
Iridaceae
Origin
Asia, Mediterranean & South Africa
Description
Gladiolus bulbs deliver dramatic garden presence with towering flower spikes reaching 2–6 feet. These perennials grow from symmetrical corms wrapped in fibrous tunics, producing sword-shaped leaves and one-sided inflorescences of bisexual flowers. Each bloom features funnel-shaped tepals—the dorsal segment arching prominently over three stamens—in rich red tones with potential white or contrasting markings. The unbranched stems support 1 to 9 narrow, grooved leaves, while the large, secund flower spikes create striking vertical interest. Revered as the Queen of bulbous flowers, Gladiolus combines botanical sophistication with ornamental impact, making it an essential choice for gardeners seeking commanding floral displays and cut-flower arrangements.
Gladiolus ‘Red Majesty’ bulbs bloom with bold scarlet spikes, making them excellent for summer gardens and bouquets. Flowers Nov–Feb (plains), Dec–Mar (hills). Plant Aug–Oct (plains) or Aug–Sep (hills).
Environment
Gladioli like well-drained soil and full sun. Using a garden fork or tiller to loosen the soil to about 12 to 15 inches deep. After loosening the soil, mix in a 2- to 4-inch layer of compost or aged manure.Plant bulbs 3 to 6 inches deep and 2 to 3 inches apart with the flat side down.After planting bulbs, water them generously. Soak the soil so that it settles around the bulb.
Water the plants periodically. It is better to provide a good weekly soaking than to water them lightly two or three times a week. The roots and stems will appear shortly after their first watering.
It takes about 60 days from the time gladioli are planted for the corms to root, grow, bloom.Once your flowers have started blooming, you can leave them on the plant or cut them to make a striking flower arrangement. If you choose to leave the flower on the plant, cut off the dead head to guarantee continuous growth. When the flowers stop blooming, do not cut down the foliage. The leaves continue to produce food that is stored in the corm for the next year s season of flowers. After the blossoms have faded, water the bulbs regularly. The leaves will start to turn yellow and brown and eventually dry up. When this happens, empty the pot. Recover the bulbs and allow the soil that sticks to to them to dry. Remove dead foliage, brush off dry soil, and store the bulbs in a cool, dry place. They will be ready for the next year.
Landscape Use
It is a beautiful addition to any garden, and makes a wonderful container plant.
