Unfortunately, the beautiful gladioli do not have a very long flowering period and the attractive flower stalks have already faded after about two weeks. To ensure that the onions continue to grow and sprout vigorously again next year, you must observe a few important points when caring for them.
Fading should be cut off
Cut out stems
As soon as the gladioli have faded, you should cut out the stems. This prevents the gladiolus from putting all its energy into seed formation. In order for the bulbous plant to thrive and bloom again next year, it is important that the tuber continues to grow. This would be prevented by the ripening of the seeds.
Thoroughly clean the cutting tool before these maintenance measures. This prevents bacteria and fungi from entering the onion via the stalk.
Leave foliage on the gladiolus
While the leaves may not look particularly attractive, resist the temptation to prune them right after flowering. The onion needs the green to store enough nutrients for the next growing season.
Conceal yellowing foliage
For a while, the majestic gladioli were not seen too often in our gardens. One of the reasons for this is certainly that the yellowing foliage is not particularly attractive to look at. However, with a little planning, this can be prevented. Perennials or annual flowering plants in the foreground cover the gladiolus foliage and ensure that the bed looks attractive well into autumn.
Preparation for winter
Only when only the bottom two leaves are green or there is a threat of night frost is the gladiolus shortened to about ten centimetres, taken out of the ground and overwintered in a cool, dry place.
tips
Whether in the garden or in the vase: the gladiolus often does not open all the flowers. While the lower inflorescences are completely withered and are already forming seeds, the top buds are still closed. If you cut off everything that has faded immediately, even the top buds will open without any problems.