Gladiolus species

sword lily

Plants of Home and Garden

Plant corm in rich, well-draining soil, 4-6" apart, after last frost. May try soaking 24 hours before planting. Water, but sparingly, and provide good light. Growing plants often require staking for support. Most plants half-hardy to zones 9-10 only; see exceptions below

Dig corms after the first frost kills the leaves, rub off soil and remove remaining foliage. Allow to mature at room temperature several weeks, then remove old corm, and mature another week or two. Store dark, dry and unprotected, cool but not freezing

Gladiolus byzantinus, Gladiolus communis, Gladiolus italicus and Gladiolus nanus are fairly hardy, and can be grown outside. Plant in the fall, some 3" deep in a protected warm spot. Well-draining rich soil ideal; protect with mulch in the winter. Gladiolus communis and Gladiolus italicus hardy to zone 5