Gladiolus

This is a wonderful species that was often admired in our displays at Hampton Court and Tatton Park Flower Shows. It bears stems of attractive soft-yellow flowers with an apricot tinge on open spikes in summer and as the bulbs multiply the flowers continue to appear for many weeks. Gladiolus dalenii prefers an sunny well-drained position and well drained soil - it is easy to grow and rewarding. Protect the dormant bulbs from frost in winter by planting the corms deeply, up to 4" (10cm) deep, and by applying a grit mulch. Plants in pots should be kept dry and frost-free in a greenhouse or outbuilding over winter.