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Gladiolus

Gladiolus × hybridus

outdoor

Gladiolus × hybridus, commonly called Gladiolus or Sword Lilies, are popular tender bulbs producing tall spikes of vibrant flowers in nearly every color imaginable. These hybrids are prolific bloomers valued for cutting and floral arrangements, with blooms lasting several weeks when cut. They are staple garden plants and commercial cut flowers, requiring simple care and offering dramatic vertical interest.

Gladiolus

Common Problems

Select the problem your Gladiolus is experiencing to get a treatment guide.

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Yellow Leaveschevron_right
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Wiltingchevron_right
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Root Rotchevron_right
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Brown Spotschevron_right
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Slow Growthchevron_right

Care Guide

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Light
Full sun; requires 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal flowering and strong stem development
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Water
Moderate watering; keep soil consistently moist during growing season but avoid waterlogging. Reduce watering after flowering
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Soil
Well-draining, fertile soil enriched with organic matter; prefers slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0–7.0)
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Fertiliser
Apply balanced fertilizer every 3–4 weeks during growing season; switch to low-nitrogen formula in late summer
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Temperature
Tender annual; warm-season grower; plant after last frost; requires frost-free conditions; dig and store corms in winter
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Humidity
Moderate humidity; prefers typical garden conditions; provide air circulation to prevent fungal issues

Toxicity

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Non-toxic to pets and children; completely safe for household gardens

Common Diseases

coronavirusRoot Rotchevron_rightcoronavirusFusarium Wiltchevron_rightcoronavirusLeaf Spotchevron_rightcoronavirusBotrytischevron_right

Common Pests

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Seasonal Care

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Resume regular watering and feeding as growth picks up.

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Peak growing season. Water and feed regularly.

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Reduce watering as growth slows. Stop heavy feeding.

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Minimal watering and feeding. Protect from frost if needed.