1. Sowing

Gladiolus plant requires a sunny place. Select a place in your garden that gets 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight a day. Soil should be well-draining since gladiolus detests waterlogged soil. If your soil is heavy, incorporate compost to allow for better drainage.

2. Soil Preparation

Soil preparation before planting loosen the soil before planting Gladiolus prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH of 6-7. Use compost or rotten manure to fertilize it. This will feed the soil with the nutrients it needs for healthy growth.

Early monsoon, i.e., May or June is the best season to plant gladiolus corms in India. Plant them again for a second flowering in winter months during September or October. give the corm 4-6 inches deep and 6-8 inches apart in the soil. Plant the corm with the pointed end facing upwards.

4. Watering

Water the gladiolus plants from time to time but not excessively, as this may cause root rot. Water the plants thoroughly once a week or whenever the topsoil dries out. Avoid watering during monsoon periods since the plants receive enough rain. Water at more regular intervals during summer.

Gladiolus is a nutrient-grabbing type, so one needs to provide them with appropriate nutrients. At the beginning, use an overall balanced fertilizer (e.g., NPK 10-10-10) at the time of planting of the corms. As soon as corms turn into plants, provide a potash-rich fertilizer monthly for the induction of flowers. Compost or cow manure weekly given

6. Plant Support

Because gladiolus flowers are quite tall, the flowers would need to be staked periodically so that the stems would not knock over. Staking of gladiolus can either be done using stakes or with stakes made from bamboo. Give support with a wooden stick to save the flower stick.

7. Pest and Disease Control

Gladiolus attracts aphids, thrips, and snails. Can use neem-based or chemical-based pesticides Be cautious and observe the plants carefully and remove the ill flowers or leaves so that the disease is not spread. Leaf spot or rust fungus also infects gladiolus and hence proper care must be taken in planting and not overwatering them.