Bulb

When to Plant Gladiolus

Tall, dramatic flower spikes producing sword-shaped blooms in every color. Classic cut flower for summer arrangements.

Sun

Full sun (6-8 hours)

Water

1 inch per week

Days to Harvest

70-100

Difficulty

beginner

Spacing

Frost Tolerance

none

The Short Answer

Plant gladiolus after your last frost date when soil reaches 55°F. Enter your zip code on our homepage tool for exact dates.

How to Grow Gladiolus

Gladiolus produce tall, dramatic flower spikes in every color imaginable — they're the classic cut flower for summer arrangements. Plant corms every 2 weeks from spring through early summer for continuous bloom throughout the season. Stake tall varieties to prevent wind toppling. Cut when the bottom 2-3 flowers are open; the rest will continue opening in the vase. After foliage yellows in fall, dig corms in zones 7 and colder, dry them for a week, remove the old dried corm from the bottom, and store in a mesh bag in a cool (40-50°F), dry location over winter.

Growing Tips

Plant corms every 2 weeks from spring through early summer for continuous bloom. Stake tall varieties. Dig corms before frost in zones 7 and colder — store in a cool, dry place for replanting next spring.

Companion Planting

Good companions:

Marigolds Zinnias

Gladiolus Planting Dates by State

Click your state for gladiolus planting dates specific to your location:

Note: Planting dates are based on average frost dates from NOAA Climate Normals (30-year averages). Actual conditions vary year to year. Always check your local forecast before planting frost-sensitive crops.

Last reviewed: March 29, 2026