Gladioli: The Perfect Cut-Flower for Kiwi Gardens
There's nothing quite like a tall, brightly coloured bunch of Gladdies sitting on the kitchen bench, right?!?... admittedly, I never used to be a Gladioli fan (probably something to do with that afterschool child labour, aye, Mum and Dad), but as we get older and wiser (wiser yet to come) my tastes have well and truly changed. Gladdies are now one of my all-time faves!
It's been a few years since we've grown Gladdies for the cut flower market, but they seem to keep getting more and more popular! Move over Dahlia!
Gladioli have a rich history in floral arrangements and symbolism, often representing strength, integrity, and remembrance. Their tall, sword-like stems lend a unique architectural quality to any space, whether in the garden or a vase. With over 260 species, gladioli offers endless possibilities for gardeners and florists alike.
Top 5 Reasons to Grow Gladioli
- Vibrant Colors: Gladioli come in a wide range of colours, from pastel hues to rich, bold colours. They add drama and elegance to any garden, becoming an immediate focal point.
- Easy to Grow: Gladioli are remarkably resilient and can thrive across most of New Zealand with minimal fuss. Just plant them in a sunny spot, water them regularly, and they'll reward you with stunning blooms.
- Long-Lasting Blooms: Stagger your planting for a prolonged flowering season, and you'll enjoy fresh flowers throughout the summer. It's a simple way to keep your garden lively and colourful for months!
- Perfect Cut Flowers: Gladioli are practically made for indoor arrangements. Their tall, elegant stems and long-lasting blooms make them ideal for large displays that stay fresh in a vase for days.
- Pollinator-Friendly: Not only do gladioli look gorgeous, but they're also beloved by bees and butterflies. By planting them, you're giving these crucial pollinators a welcoming habitat.
My Favourite Gladi Combination
My favourite combo has got to be Purple, Green and White - not only do they look absolutely stunning in a vase, but the florists love them, too! (this is the combo that we'd consistently get record auction prices on).
We stopped growing Gladioli for the cut flower market during the COVID times, but from past experience, if you're a flower farmer who wants to get top dollar for your Gladdies, please give these 3 a go!
Tackling That Dreaded Rust
If you live in one of New Zealand's more humid regions, you might already be familiar with the gladioli's persistent foe: rust. This fungus can strike not just gladioli but also garlic and other plants, leaving those telltale rusty leaves. It's not the end of the world, though—plenty of effective treatments exist.
Our go-to solution for dealing with rust has always been FreeFlo Copper, a copper-based fungicide that works wonders when applied a few times during the growth cycle. It keeps those gladioli leaves lush and green, free from any orange blemishes. But if you're after a DIY alternative, there's a baking soda mix (water, a dash of detergent, and baking soda) that can help. Another grower even recommended a super sulphur-based spray, which is worth trying. Whichever option you choose, a bit of preventive care goes a long way in keeping rust at bay!
Happy gardening, and here's to a season filled with bright blooms and plenty of Gladdies! 👩🌾🌱🌞💜
Kayne and the Bulbs Direct Team
