Which month is the best to plant gladiolus?

Gladiolus , also known as gladiolus and iris, is a perennial herb of the genus Gladiolus in the family Iridaceae . It likes warmth and the suitable temperature for its growth is 20-25℃. Gladiolus has gorgeous flowers and its bulbs can be used as medicine, so it has a very high ornamental value. So which month is the best to plant gladiolus? Let’s take a look with the editor below.

1. Which month is the best time to plant gladiolus?

1. Spring planting

Spring is one of the best times to plant gladiolus, usually from mid-March to mid-April. During this period, the temperature gradually warms up and becomes more suitable, making it easier to manage after planting, which is conducive to the growth of gladiolus.

2. Autumn planting

In addition to spring, autumn is also a good time to plant gladiolus, usually from mid-September to mid-October. When weather conditions are favorable in fall, gladiolus can grow quickly and establish a root system.

2. Gladiolus planting method

1. Soil preparation

Gladiolus prefers fertile, loose, well-drained sandy soil, and the most suitable pH value is between 5.6-6.5. Avoid planting in heavy clay soils or areas prone to waterlogging. To avoid diseases and pests, the soil can be disinfected before planting, such as using high-temperature closed fumigation disinfection method.

2. Bulb processing

Select small to medium-sized bulbs with flat spherical shape that are spot-free, disease-free, and have no damage to the germination and rooting areas. Peel off the old skin on the outside of the bulb to reveal the healthy bulb inside. Soak the bulbs in a 1:1000 carbendazim solution for about half an hour to sterilize them and prevent them from rotting.

3. Water management

Gladiolus likes a humid environment, but avoids stagnant water. Keep the soil moist during the growing period and water 1-2 times a week. When encountering hot weather, spray immediately to increase humidity and lower the temperature. Pay attention to drainage after rain.

4. Lighting

Gladiolus is a long-day plant and requires at least 6 hours of light per day. The longer the light hours, the earlier the flowering time. It is recommended to place it outdoors or on a sunny south balcony for maintenance. No shading is required in all seasons.

5. Temperature

The best temperature for gladiolus growth is 20-25℃ during the day and 10-15℃ at night. When the temperature is above 27℃, growth is hindered and the petals are easily burned. When the temperature is below 10℃, growth is slow.

6. Fertilization

During the peak growing season, apply nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium compound fertilizer in appropriate amounts to promote flowering. After the leaves grow, you can use Huaduoduo No. 1 as top dressing once every half a month. After the flower arrows grow, use potassium dihydrogen phosphate or Huaduoduo No. 2 instead, dilute with water at a ratio of 1:1000 and then water.

The above is an introduction to the most suitable months for planting gladiolus. Gladiolus is best planted in spring, especially in April, when the temperature is moderate and the sunshine is sufficient, which is very helpful for the growth of gladiolus. If it is cultivated in a greenhouse, it can be planted at any time of the year as long as the temperature and humidity are suitable.