Large Flowering Gladioli

Why should you choose large flowering gladioli bulbs?

Large flowering gladioli bulbs are the perfect choice for gardeners looking to add height, structure, and vibrant colour to their outdoor space. With their tall, elegant spikes of funnel-shaped blooms, these gladioli make a striking impact in borders and beds, bringing late-season interest from September through to October when many other plants have faded.

One of the standout features of large flowering gladioli is their versatility. They fit beautifully into a wide range of garden styles, from modern minimalist designs to classic cottage gardens. Additionally, they are highly prized for their use as cut flowers, offering long-lasting blooms that bring a bold touch of elegance to floral arrangements.

With their impressive size and reliable flowering, large flowering gladioli bulbs are easy to grow, providing months of stunning display with minimal effort. For those looking to extend their garden’s visual appeal into autumn, these gladioli bulbs are an excellent, eye-catching addition.

Stephen’s large flowering gladioli bulbs top picks

Stephen Teeuw is the 3rd generation of his family to work in the flower bulb industry; he grows hundreds of varieties of new bulbs each year. At Peter Nyssen, we offer a wide variety of large flowering gladiolus to satisfy the needs of any gardening enthusiast. Here are Stephen’s top picks:

• Gladioli Dreamy Creamy: Touches of cream and green, hidden in this frilled and elegant glady. 

• Gladioli Donatella: A surprisingly useful shade of peach for hiding around the garden beds. It goes with nearly anything.

• Gladioli Black Sea: It’s worth growing these just for cutting and making a long lasting dramatic arrangement.

How to plant large flowering gladioli bulbs

Planting large flowering gladioli bulbs is straightforward and rewarding, providing tall, elegant blooms that enhance your garden late in the season. Follow these steps to ensure your gladiolus thrives:

Choose the right location: Gladioli thrive in full sun, so select a sunny spot in your garden that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight each day. They prefer well-drained soil, as waterlogged conditions can cause the bulbs to rot.

Prepare the soil: Loosen the soil to improve drainage, and if necessary, mix in some compost or organic matter to provide the bulbs with nutrients. Gladioli do best in rich, well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH.

Planting depth and spacing: Plant the gladioli bulbs about 10-15 cm (4-6 inches) deep, with the pointed end facing upwards. Space the bulbs 10-15 cm (4-6 inches) apart to allow for proper air circulation and room to grow.

Water thoroughly: After planting, water the area well to help settle the soil around the bulbs. During the growing season, keep the soil evenly moist, but avoid overwatering, as gladioli dislike soggy conditions.

Provide support if needed: Since large flowering gladioli grow tall, you may want to stake the plants to prevent them from bending or snapping, especially in windy conditions. Install stakes or supports at planting time to avoid disturbing the roots later.

With these simple steps, your large flowering gladioli bulbs will thrive, providing stunning, tall blooms that add colour and structure to your garden from late summer into autumn.

Why choose Peter Nyssen bulbs?

• We are a friendly, family-run business with more than 60 years of experience

• We offer bulk prices and free delivery for orders over £50

• We supply flower bulbs in quantities large and small, for all types of gardeners from the cottage potterer to the professional landscaper 

• With a range of colours and varieties available, you'll be spoilt for choice.

FAQs

When is the best time to plant large flowering gladioli bulbs?

The best time to plant large flowering gladioli bulbs is in spring, once the danger of frost has passed. In the UK, this is typically from late April to early June. This ensures the bulbs have warm soil for strong root growth and healthy development.

How deep should I plant large flowering gladioli bulbs?

Plant gladioli bulbs about 10-15 cm (4-6 inches) deep with the pointed end facing upwards. Ensure they are spaced 10-15 cm (4-6 inches) apart to allow for air circulation and space for the plants to grow tall.

Do large flowering gladioli need support?

Yes, due to their height, large flowering gladioli often benefit from support. Use stakes or plant them near structures that can provide natural support. This will prevent the stems from bending or snapping in windy conditions.

How often should I water large flowering gladioli?

Water gladioli regularly during their growing season to keep the soil moist, but avoid overwatering as they don’t like soggy soil. Once established, they are relatively drought-tolerant, but consistent watering will result in healthier plants and more blooms.

Can large flowering gladioli be used as cut flowers?

Yes, large flowering gladioli make excellent cut flowers due to their long stems and vibrant blooms. They are ideal for floral arrangements and can last for over a week in a vase, providing long-lasting beauty indoors.

Need more help?

Add height, structure, and vibrant late-season colour to your garden with our stunning large flowering gladioli bulbs. Perfect for borders, beds, and cutting gardens, these striking blooms will bring elegance and boldness to your outdoor space from late summer through autumn. For planting tips and care advice, visit our gladioli planting guide.