Large-Flowered Gladioli 'Rhapsody in Blue' - Tuber

In the spring, plant the Gladioli 'Rhapsody in Blue' bulbs about 7-10 cm deep and approximately 10-12 cm apart. Prepare a suitable hole and sprinkle the bottom with a layer of sharp sand to allow rainwater to drain well below the bulbs. Improve garden soil by mixing in a garden fertilizer. Sprinkle some lime on the soil during the winter. Combine heavy soil with sharp sand before planting. These large-flowered Gladioli 'Rhapsody in Blue' like to grow in a warm, sunny area.

These large-flowered Gladioli 'Rhapsody in Blue' have a striking, pink and white colouring. You can create special combinations along your border by planting a group of ‘Rhapsody in Blue’ next to Cosmos 'Flamingo' or Dahlias. A very natural effect occurs when combining with ornamental grasses, such as Japanese Blood Grass (Imperata Cylindrica 'Red Baron'). This large-flowered species also makes great cut flowers.

Would you like to use your Gladioli 'Rhapsody in Blue' as cut flowers? Pick them when the lower flowers begin to open, preferably early in the morning. Immediately place the stems in a bucket full of lukewarm water with cut flower food. Due to its strong stems, the Gladioli 'Rhapsody in Blue’ can 'reach' for water easily. Here is an extra tip: plant an extra group of these Gladioli two weeks later. As a result, the flowering period in your garden will be extended.

Fertilize your Gladioli 'Rhapsody in Blue’ regularly to allow for the growth of new flower buds. It is a good idea to add fertilizer when watering. Stop fertilizing three weeks after flowering. The stems of Gladioli 'Rhapsody in Blue’ can be very heavy and sometimes need some support. Completely cut off its faded stems. Plant gladiolus, preferably in a different place each year in nutritious soil.

Gladiolus can easily be preserved during the winter. After the first night frost, cut off all stems 10 cm above the bulb and let them dry. Shake the soil off the bulbs and place them in a box of compost and sharp sand. Store the box in a frost-free area. Attach a label with the name of the Gladioli to remind yourself for the following year. By the following spring, you can plant your bulbs again and Gladioli 'Rhapsody in Blue' will once again reward you with its beautiful flowers.