Gladiolus Peter Pears

Plant Gladiolus corms in spring, once the risk of hard frost has passed. For flowers over a longer period, plant small batches every 2 weeks from mid-spring into early summer.

Plant Gladiolus corms around 10 to 15cm deep in a sunny, sheltered position with well-drained soil. This gives the stems better support. Taller types may still need canes or discreet plant supports, especially in exposed gardens.

Gladiolus needs full sun, enough moisture while growing and a corm large enough to flower. Shallow planting, shade, dry soil and small immature cormlets can all lead to foliage without blooms. Water during dry spells and leave the leaves to die back naturally after flowering.

Yes. Use a deep container with drainage holes and plant the corms in fresh, free-draining compost. Keep the pot in full sun, water regularly during growth and support tall stems if needed.

In most UK gardens, it is safest to lift Gladiolus corms after the leaves turn yellow-brown in autumn. Dry them, remove loose soil and store them somewhere cool, dry and frost-free until spring. In mild areas with very well-drained soil, some types can survive outside under a thick dry mulch.