Royal Velvet

Gladioli Planting Guide
Gladioli corms should be planted near the end of the seasons frost period.
The corm should be planted in moderately fertile, light, free draining soil. They prefer to be in full, direct sunlight and in a position sheltered from the wind.
Loosen the soil until 20cm deep then plant the corm at approximately 10cm deep with the point facing upwards, then cover well without compacting the soil on top. Adding compost or Blood and Bone fertiliser during its growth period can encourage healthier blooms if the soil is deficient.
They create more impact when planted in clusters of corms, about 10 cm apart, this will create a bright statement of colour in the garden.
Tall Gladiolus varieties may need extra support with stakes, but shorter varieties will perform fine without any. Keep the soil moist during periods of growth.
At the end of the season, allow the stem to naturally die down before cutting it off at a finger length height.
Gladioli will flower approximately 100 days after planting.
Planting into Pots
For pots, make sure you have good drainage holes. The pot should be at least 30cm deep and 30cm in diameter. The corm needs at least 10cm of soil below the corm.
You can place 2-5cm of gravel at the bottom of the pot to assist drainage with a landscape fabric on top to prevent the soil from draining down and clogging the drainage holes.
Water after planting and then water the pot heavily once a week. Potted gladioli’s do best when a slow release fertiliser is used at planting time then no more fertiliser is required. You do not need to fertilise at planting time if you use a potting soil that has plant food already mixed in.