🌸 How to Grow Apollo Gladiolus from Bulbs (Corms)

Also known as:

Hindi: एप्पोलो ग्लेडियोलस
Tamil: அபோலோ குளேடியோலஸ்
Telugu: అపోలో గ్లాడియోలస్
Malayalam: അപോളോ ഗ്ലാഡിയോലസ്
Kannada: ಅಪೋಲೋ ಗ್ಲೇಡಿಯೋಲಸ್
English: Apollo Gladiolus

Botanical Name: Gladiolus spp.

1. 🗓️ Choose the Right Season
   Best time to plant: Spring (after last frost, March–May)
   Thrives in temperate to warm climates
   Ideal temperature for planting: 15°C–25°C

2. 🌱 Prepare the Soil
   Soil Type: Well-draining, fertile, sandy or loamy soil
   pH Level: Neutral to slightly acidic (6.0–7.0)
   Enrich soil with compost or organic matter for better growth

3. 🌾 Planting the Bulbs (Corms)
   Depth: Plant corms 4 inches (10 cm) deep
   Spacing: 6–8 inches (15–20 cm) apart
   Place with the pointed side facing upwards

4. 💧 Watering
   Water thoroughly after planting to settle soil
   Maintain consistent moisture during active growth, but avoid waterlogging
   Reduce watering as flowering ends

5. 🌿 Growth & Blooming
   Shoots appear 2–4 weeks after planting
   Tall flower spikes bloom in summer, with bright trumpet-shaped flowers
   Apollo Gladiolus known for its vibrant colors and sturdy stems

6. ☀️ Sunlight & Temperature
   Prefers full sun (6+ hours daily)
   Does well in warm climates with good air circulation
   Avoid planting in heavy shade

7. 🌼 Fertilization
   Apply balanced fertilizer at planting
   Feed every 4 weeks during growth with a bloom-boosting fertilizer
   Avoid excessive nitrogen to prevent weak stems

8. 🛡️ Pest & Disease Control
   Common pests: Thrips, aphids, spider mites
   Diseases: Fusarium wilt, bulb rot in poorly drained soil
   Use neem oil or insecticidal soap for pests
   Ensure soil drainage to prevent rot

9. 🌸 Aftercare & Maintenance
   Cut flower spikes after blooming to encourage bulb rest
   Allow foliage to yellow before removal to nourish bulbs
   Lift corms in colder climates and store in a cool, dry place
   Divide and replant every 2–3 years to maintain vigor

10. 🌱 Regrow Tip
    Propagate by separating offsets attached to the main corm
    Store dry corms in a ventilated container over winter
    Replant in spring for best flowering

🌸 Benefits of Apollo Gladiolus

• Tall, elegant flower spikes with vibrant colors ideal for cut flowers

• Adds vertical interest and dramatic flair to gardens

• Easy to grow with proper care and well-drained soil

• Long-lasting blooms perfect for floral arrangements