Content
- What to do if the gladiolus has withered?
- Cut out stalks
- Leave leaves on the gladiolus
- Hide yellowing leaves
- Preparation for the winter
- Tips
The blooms should be cut off
What to do if the gladiolus has withered?
Unfortunately, the beautiful gladioli have not too long flowering time and after only about two weeks, the attractive flower stems are flowered. In order for the bulbs to continue to grow and drive out vigorously again next year, you must pay attention to a number of important points in your care.
Cut out stalks
Immediately when the gladioli have faded, you should cut out the stems. This prevents the gladiolus from putting all the power into the seed formation. In order for the bulbous plant to thrive and flourish again next year, it is important that the tuber continues to grow. This would be prevented by the maturation of the seeds.
Thoroughly clean the cutting tool prior to this care. This prevents bacteria and fungi from entering the onion via the stem.
Leave leaves on the gladiolus
Although the leaves may not look attractive, you should resist the temptation to cut them immediately after flowering. The onion needs the green to store enough nutrients for the next growing season.
Hide yellowing leaves
For some time, the majestic gladioli were not often found in our gardens. One of the reasons for this is certainly that the yellowing foliage does not offer a particularly attractive sight. With a little planning, however, this can be prevented. Perennials or annual flowering plants in the foreground obscure the gladiola foliage and ensure an attractive appearance of the bedding until autumn.
Preparation for the winter
Only when only the bottom two leaves are green or night frosts threaten the gladiolus is shortened to about ten inches, taken out of the ground and wintered in a cool, dry place.
Tips
Whether in the garden or in the vase: Often, the gladiolus does not open all the flowers. While the lower inflorescences are completely withered and already forming seeds, the uppermost buds are still closed. Cut off everything that has withered immediately and the top buds open without any problems.