How to Grow Potted Gladiolus Well? A Detailed Guide to Care Methods
Gladiolus, also known as sword lily, is a hybrid variety originating from the Cape of Good Hope, and it is now planted in many parts of our country. Gladiolus is an excellent cut flower, very beautiful when combined with other flowers, and can also be planted in flower beds and at home to decorate the environment. In addition, vitamin C can also be extracted from the stems and leaves of gladiolus, giving it a certain medicinal value. Let us take a look below at how to grow potted gladiolus well.
1. Choice of potting soil
When planting gladiolus, you need to choose suitable soil. Generally, sandy soil with good drainage, good aeration, and a deep soil layer is more suitable, as this can reduce the chance of water accumulation.
When choosing a flowerpot, try to choose a ceramic pot with good aeration; of course, a plastic pot is also acceptable. A pot with holes at the bottom is better, as this is more conducive to drainage and aeration. If you choose a shallow pot, it will be more breathable. The size of the pot should be determined according to the number of gladiolus plants, and sufficient space for subsequent growth must be ensured.
2. Temperature conditions
Potted gladiolus generally blooms three to four months after planting, but the premise is that the temperature must meet the growth conditions. During the growth period, the higher the temperature, the faster the growth rate. Of course, it is not that the higher the temperature, the better; it must be controlled within a certain reasonable temperature range.
3. Watering methods
After potted gladiolus is planted, the small seedlings that emerge should be watered once every so often, so as to ensure that the potting soil does not dry out and the leaves do not turn yellow. After the potted gladiolus blooms, it also needs timely replenishment of water, because at this time growth is relatively vigorous and the water and nutrients required are relatively large. If it is summer with relatively high temperatures, water evaporates very quickly, so the number of waterings or the amount of water should be appropriately increased. You can also spray water on the leaves to lower the temperature and retain moisture.
Of course, you should not water too frequently, so as to avoid water accumulation and root rot. If there is long-term drought, it will also cause rapid water loss and make the whole plant wilt or die.
4. Fertilization methods
Potted gladiolus is a flower that relatively likes fertilizer. In addition to base fertilizer that meets growth needs, it should also be appropriately topdressed, so that it can grow and bloom better. Generally, fertilizer should be applied three to four times a month. Do not apply excessive nitrogen fertilizer, and also pay attention to the use of phosphorus and potassium fertilizer, so as to promote flower bud differentiation.
After gladiolus blooms, calcium phosphate should be appropriately added to promote the growth of the corms.
5. Light conditions
Potted gladiolus likes sunlight, so when conditions permit, it is best to ensure fourteen hours of light per day, as this better promotes flower bud differentiation. After flower bud differentiation, the light duration can be appropriately reduced, so as to make it bloom earlier.
In summary, to grow potted gladiolus well, attention should be paid to conditions such as potting soil, temperature, watering, fertilization, and light.