Gladiolus Peter Pears

Gladiolus ‘Peter Pears’ is a real showstopper for the summer garden, producing tall, elegant spikes packed with warm, rich apricot-orange to deep peach blooms, often glowing with golden tones and finished with a striking scarlet tongue on the lower petals. The flowers open gradually up the stem, so you get a long display outdoors—and plenty of stems to cut for the house. One spike in a vase looks instantly like a bouquet.

Perfect for adding height and drama to sunny borders, ‘Peter Pears’ weaves beautifully through perennials and ornamental grasses, bringing a sunset warmth that lifts any planting scheme. It’s also a favourite for cutting gardens thanks to its strong stems and long-lasting blooms. For weeks of flowers, plant corms in batches from spring to early summer and you’ll have a steady supply of vibrant colour right through the season.

Planting Instructions

When to Plant:

Plant gladiolus corms in spring once the risk of hard frost has passed (typically April to May). For a longer flowering season, plant in batches every 2–3 weeks until early summer.

Where to Plant:
Choose a sunny, sheltered position with well-drained, fertile soil. Gladioli love warmth and perform best where they are protected from strong winds. Ideal for mixed borders, cutting gardens, and planting in groups for maximum impact.

How to Plant:

• Depth: Plant corms 10–15 cm (4–6 inches) deep with the pointed end facing up.
• Spacing: Space corms 10–15 cm (4–6 inches) apart, or plant in clusters for a fuller look.
• Soil Prep: Improve soil with compost or well-rotted manure. Avoid waterlogged ground—good drainage is essential.

Watering:
Water after planting and keep soil evenly moist during growth, especially in dry spells. Once flowering begins, regular watering helps produce taller spikes and better blooms.

Aftercare Tips:

• As stems grow, provide support if needed—tall varieties may benefit from a cane or plant support in windy areas.
• Deadhead spent blooms to keep plants tidy, but leave foliage in place to feed the corm for next year.
• After flowering, allow leaves to yellow naturally before lifting corms.
• In colder areas or heavy soils, lift and store corms in autumn once foliage dies back; keep them dry and frost-free over winter.

Top Tip:
For the best vase life, cut stems when the lowest 1–2 flowers have just opened. For a really long flowering season, plant a few corms every couple of weeks from spring to early summer.

Plant Details

Flowering Period:
July - September (depending on planting time)

Height:
36–48" (90–120cm)

Position:
Full sun