Gladioli Bulbs

Gladioli Bulbs FAQs

Take a look at some of the frequently asked questions we receive from those looking to buy Gladioli Bulbs in the UK. You can contact our Customer Service Team or browse our general FAQs for further advice.

When to plant Gladioli Bulbs

The best time to plant gladioli bulbs in the UK is in late spring, typically from April to May, once the risk of frost has passed and the soil has warmed up to around 10°C (50°F). Planting in late spring ensures that the plants will bloom during the summer months, usually from June to September. If you want to extend the blooming season, you can stagger your plantings every two to three weeks throughout spring. Gladioli bulbs should be planted after the last frost, as they are sensitive to cold weather.

How to Plant Gladioli Bulbs

To plant gladioli bulbs, choose a sunny spot with well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. Start planting in late spring (April to May) once the soil has warmed up and the risk of frost has passed.

Dig a hole about 10–15 cm (4–6 inches) deep for each bulb, and space them 10–15 cm (4–6 inches) apart. Place the bulb with the pointed end facing up and cover it lightly with soil. Water gently after planting to settle the soil around the bulb. Gladioli bulbs prefer consistent moisture, so be sure to water regularly, especially during dry spells.

For continuous blooms, you can plant gladioli every two to three weeks during spring, ensuring a staggered flowering period throughout the summer.

How long do Gladioli Bulbs take to grow

Gladioli bulbs typically take 8 to 10 weeks to grow from planting to blooming, depending on the variety and growing conditions. After planting in late spring (April to May), the bulbs will begin to sprout within 2 to 3 weeks, with the flowers starting to bloom in early to mid-summer (June to September). Gladioli grow rapidly, producing tall spikes of flowers, and bloom for several weeks, with individual flowers opening from the bottom upwards. If planted in intervals, you can enjoy gladioli blooms throughout the summer.

Why Grow Gladioli Bulbs?

Growing gladioli bulbs is a great way to add height, colour, and drama to your garden with their striking flower spikes. Gladioli come in a variety of vibrant colours and can create a stunning focal point in flower beds, borders, or cut flower gardens. They are relatively easy to grow, thrive in sunny spots with well-drained soil, and provide long-lasting blooms throughout the summer. Gladioli are perfect for creating a bold display, and their tall, elegant flowers are also excellent for use in floral arrangements. Additionally, gladioli bulbs can be stored and replanted each year, making them a cost-effective way to enjoy beautiful flowers year after year.

Where can you grow Gladioli Bulbs?

Gladioli bulbs thrive in sunny locations with well-drained, fertile soil, making them ideal for planting in flower beds, borders, or cut flower gardens. They can also be grown in containers or pots on patios or balconies, provided they receive at least 6 hours of sunlight a day. Gladioli are perfect for adding vertical height to garden displays, so they are often planted at the back of borders or as a focal point. They also grow well near trellises or fences where they can be sheltered from strong winds that may damage their tall flower spikes. Gladioli prefer warm conditions, so avoid planting them in overly shaded or damp spots.

Why Buy Gladioli Bulbs from Marshalls?

• Our customers are supported by a team of experts dedicated to providing valuable advice. You can also use our growing guides, backed by 70 years of experience, to get the best results from your Gladioli Bulbs and other plants.
• You can contact us six days a week – including bank holidays – to discuss our products and services or to chat about all things gardening.
• We pride ourselves on offering fast delivery on all orders, with any 'in stock' plants and seeds sent out within three working days. We're green-fingered in more ways than one, too, thanks to our fully recyclable packaging.
• We won second place at the 2022 Great British Growing Awards for Best Online Retailer.
• Thousands of five-star reviews on Trustpilot and a 100% satisfaction guarantee on all our products show that we're a company you can trust.