Bio Gladiolus 'Black Surprise' | 7 st.

Organic Dark Red Gladioli

The Gladiolus 'Black Surprise' is a striking, dark red gladiolus. It is also called "sword lily" due to the plant’s shape. Gladioli bloom in midsummer, producing 10 to 15 flowers per bulb, approximately 10 centimeters wide, on a stem that grows up to 120 centimeters tall. The flowers are tubular and arranged in an upright, spike-like inflorescence. Each bloom consists of four broad sepals and three or four smaller petals, which together form a calyx. The tall flower spikes rise above the foliage, making them a prominent focal point in any garden. The leaves are sword-shaped, narrow, and glossy, adding to the plant's graceful appearance. They form a basal rosette around the stem, providing a decorative backdrop for the flowers.

The 'Black Surprise' gladiolus attracts bees and bumblebees and is highly suitable as a cut flower. Plant them in groups or rows in the garden, with approximately 50 bulbs per square meter.

How, Where, and When to Plant Gladiolus Bulbs?

Indoor pre-growth

The 'Black Surprise' gladiolus is not frost hardy. As a result, the bulbs can be started indoors from March onwards. This gives a head start in growth, allowing the gladioli to bloom earlier. The young plants can be moved outdoors after the Ice Saints (May 15), or earlier if the weather is favorable. However, be cautious of night frost; if frost is expected, bring the plants back indoors at night.

Planting Outdoors

If you choose to wait until after the frost to plant the gladiolus bulbs, the best time is after May 15. From that point on, the bulbs can be planted in the ground without the risk of frost, and they will bloom later in the summer.

Plant the bulbs at a depth of 2 to 3 times their height (approximately 15 centimeters deep) and space them 2 to 3 times their width apart.

The planting season runs until the end of June.

Location

Gladioli thrive in warmth and prefer a sunny location in nutrient-rich, well-drained loamy or sandy soil. For clay soil, it is recommended to add some organic material to the planting hole. Plant the gladiolus in a sheltered spot to protect it from the wind.

Care

During the growing and blooming phases, water the plants regularly to prevent them from drying out on hot days. After flowering, the foliage will die back completely. Before frost sets in, the bulbs should be removed from the ground and stored in a dry, frost-free place. They are perennial, but it is best to plant them in a different spot each year to avoid soil-borne diseases like dry rot and enjoy the bulbs for longer.

For organic potting soil, plant food, and other soil improvers, we recommend Bio Kultura!

Propagation

Gladiolus bulbs multiply underground, often producing small offsets that can be discarded. If the bulb has divided, the individual parts can be separated and replanted the following year.

Origin

The sword lily originally comes from South Africa and is the largest genus within the iris family. It is found in various regions, including Southern Europe, Asia, and West Africa. The name Gladiolus is derived from the Latin word "gladius," meaning "sword."

Buy Organic Gladiolus 'Black Surprise'

Skal NL-BIO-01 certified: 109459

Packed per 7 pieces or choose a stacking discount!

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Available to order from January '25!

Shipping €8.95 - Free shipping from €100,- purchase.

Characteristics

Other gladioli

NL-BIO-01