Gladiolus

Gladiolus Bulbs from K. van Bourgondien

Tall, colorful gladiolus make outstanding floral displays. Planting gladiolus bulbs is an economical way to bring attention to foundations, focal points and more. These flowers cover tall, straight stalks—creating a dramatic and beautiful garden display. At K. van Bourgondien, our garden professionals work to find the most colorful, dramatic gladiolus for the garden. With our wide selection of gladiolus bulbs for sale, you're sure to find the right color for your landscape or garden, and you can count on K. van Bourgondien to deliver high-quality gladioli to your door.

Choosing the Right Gladiolus

Thanks to modern plant breeding programs, K. van Bourgondien offers the traditional Hybrid Gladiolus that grow 3-5 ft. tall, as well as the more petite Glamini Gladiolus that grow about 2 ft. tall and are suitable for containers. When choosing the right gladiolus, start by deciding the size you need for your area. Next, consider your color choices. K. van Bourgondien has some of the most dramatic color choices available, and we even have professionally designed mixes. Gladiolus look best when planted in groups and large mass plantings are truly spectacular. We offer gladiolus bulk bulbs for sale that make it economical to create such vibrant displays.

Gladiolus Bulbs: Getting the Most out of Your Purchase

Gladiolus bulbs are tender bulbs and susceptible to cold temperatures. This means that while they can be planted throughout most of the United States, gardeners in zones 3-7 should lift, or dig up, the bulbs in the fall after the first frost has killed the foliage. The gladiolus bulbs should be stored in a cool place where they won't freeze over winter. They can then be replanted in the spring planting season and for years to come. By following the gladiolus planting tips below, you can get the most out of your gladiolus bulbs. For a more comprehensive guide, see our blog on how to grow, plant, and care for gladiolus flowers.

How to Plant Gladiolus Bulbs

Gladiolus bulbs are planted in the spring, after the danger of frost has passed. These tender bulbs grow best in sandy, well-drained soil rich in organic matter and where they will receive full sun, or six or more hours of direct sunlight daily. To prepare for planting, dig a trench 8" deep. For a flower border, dig a roundish or oval hole to give a more natural look than the soldier-like rows of a cutting garden. Add compost and Van Bourgondien 100% Natural Bulb Food to the trench per label instructions. Cover with 2" of soil. Firmly place the gladiolus bulbs on soil, pointed ends up, about 4" deep and 4-6" apart. In a flower border, plant a group of at least 10 bulbs for best effect. Cover with remaining soil. Water well and add 2" of mulch to conserve moisture and keep the roots cool.

When to Plant Gladiolus Bulbs

For continuous blooms and a steady supply of cut gladiolus flowers, begin planting gladiolus bulbs in mid-spring and continue to plant every two weeks until mid-July. Gladioli bulbs will bloom from 70-100 days after planting, depending on the lateness in the season.

How to Grow Gladiolus Bulbs

Tall-growing varieties may need staking while the petite Glamini Gladiolus do not require staking. Water well throughout the growing season. Fertilize with Van Bourgondien 100% Natural Bulb Food when the flower spikes first appear and after the flowers are picked. Gladioli plants are fairly low maintenance, but they are susceptible to thrip infestation. To avoid problems, soak the bulbs in a solution of 4 teaspoons of Lysol and 1 gallon of water for 2-3 hours just before planting. Because gladiolus are tender bulbs, they must be lifted in the fall in zones 3-7. Dig up the corms 4-6 weeks after the flowers fade. Remove as much soil as possible and cut off flower stalk 1" above the corm. Dry and store the bulbs indoors for the winter. Gladiolus are winter hardy in zones 8-10.

Gladiolus FAQs

Can I leave gladiolus bulbs in the ground?

Gladioli bulbs are hardy in zones 8-10. If you live in a colder zone, then you will have to dig up the bulbs and store them in a cool, dry place for the winter. Do not allow them to freeze.

Do gladiolus bulbs bloom every year?

If you have followed the proper care, then gladiolus bulbs can rebloom every year.

How long do gladiolus bulbs last?

If stored in a cool, well-ventilated area, allowing them to not freeze, gladiolus bulbs can be kept for about 12 months before planting. However, we suggest planting as soon as possible.

Do gladiolus flowers grow well with other plants?

Yes, gladiolus flowers can grow well with other plants that like sun and well-drained soil such as dahlias and zinnias.