Gladiolus Jenny

Gladiolus ‘Jenny’ is a real show-stopper for the summer garden, sending up tall, elegant flower spikes packed with beautifully shaped blooms in warm, glowing tones. It’s the kind of flower that instantly makes a border look “done” — perfect for adding height, colour and that wow-factor from mid to late summer when many early-season plants have faded.

As well as being a star in the garden, ‘Jenny’ is a fantastic cut flower. Gladioli are famous for their long vase life, and if you pick a spike when the lowest flowers are just starting to open, the rest will continue to bloom indoors over several days. They’re also excellent for pollinators, especially when planted in groups, and they’re ideal for anyone who wants big impact with surprisingly little effort. Gladioli grow from corms (not true bulbs) and are easy to lift and store over winter in colder areas, meaning you can enjoy them year after year.

Planting Instructions

When to Plant:

Plant in spring once the risk of hard frost has passed, typically from March to May. For a longer flowering season, plant corms in batches every 2–3 weeks.

Where to Plant:
Choose a sunny, sheltered position with well-drained soil. Gladioli love warmth and light and are ideal for borders, cutting gardens and growing through planting schemes with perennials and grasses. A sheltered spot helps protect the tall flower spikes from strong winds.

How to Plant:

• Depth: Plant corms 10–15 cm (4–6 inches) deep, with the pointed side facing up.
• Spacing: Space 10–15 cm (4–6 inches) apart. Plant in groups for the best display and stronger support.
• Soil Prep: Improve heavy soils with grit or compost for drainage. Avoid waterlogged ground.

Watering:
Water after planting and keep the soil lightly moist during growth, especially in dry spells. Once flowering starts, regular watering helps produce strong spikes and plenty of blooms.

Aftercare Tips:

• Stake taller stems if planting in an exposed position to prevent wind damage.
• Deadhead individual flowers as they fade, and remove the whole spike once finished.
• Leave foliage in place until it naturally yellows—this helps feed the corm for next year.
• In colder areas, lift and store corms after the foliage dies back: dry them, remove old corms, and store frost-free over winter.

Top Tip:
For a continuous summer display, plant Gladiolus ‘Jenny’ in succession every few weeks. It also makes a fabulous cut flower—pick stems when the lowest blooms begin to open for the longest vase life.

Plant Details

Flowering Period:
July - September (varies with planting time)

Height:
36–48" (90–120cm)

Position:
Full sun

Type:
Summer-flowering bulb (corm) — lift in colder areas