Gladioli Care Tips

The majestic Gladioli are an absolute eye-catcher and, with their vivid colours, evoke a longing for summer.

With a little care, Gladioli provide enjoyment for ca. 7-10 days.


1. The right vase for Gladioli

Choose a large, tall vase for Gladioli, so that at least a third of the stems stand in the water. Most importantly: use only a clean vase.

For the ca. 90-100 cm long Gladioli from Tom Flowers, we recommend the TF Vase Large.



2. Fill the vase with water

Fill the vase with cold water so that the stems then stand in the water up to at least just below the leaves.

Dissolve the enclosed flower food completely in the water before placing the stems into the water.

3. Remove leaves

Remove 1-2 leaves from the lower end of the stem. It is best to remove these with a clean knife or carefully by hand. It is important that the remaining leaves do not later reach into the water.

4. Cutting Gladioli correctly

Cut the Gladioli at a slight angle with a sharp knife or the TF flower scissors.

After cutting, place the Gladioli immediately into the prepared vase, so that the cut surfaces do not dry out and no air enters the water channels of the stems.

5. No sun, heat or fruit

To protect the Gladioli from wilting or rotting too quickly, do not place them in direct sunlight, in a place that is too warm, or near fruit.

Gladioli need regular care

Gladioli can absorb a great deal of water through their stems. Make sure that the Gladioli always have enough water, change the water every two days and cut the stems fresh again.



Is a birthday or an invitation coming up?

Order flowers conveniently today, delivered on your preferred date.

Tips & tricks for Gladioli

How long do fresh Gladioli last in the vase?

It is in the nature of things that the lifespan of fresh Gladioli cannot be predicted precisely. Gladioli that are fresh daily and of the highest quality should, with good care, stay fresh for 5 - 7 days. However, the actual lifespan depends on many factors such as correct handling, regular care and, lastly, the temperature: the warmer it is, the faster Gladioli wilt.

How do you cut Gladioli correctly for the vase?

Gladioli can be cut straight with a clean, sharp knife or the TF flower scissors. This maximises water absorption without damaging the water channels in the stem.

Why should Gladioli not be placed next to fruit?

Never place your Gladioli next to a bowl of fruit. Ripe fruit gives off ethylene – a gas that causes premature wilting.

Why should Gladioli not be placed in the sun?

Never place Gladioli in direct sunlight or in another warm spot. Otherwise the flowers evaporate more water than they can absorb through the stem and wilt within a short time.

Why should the leaves not reach into the water?

Leaves that reach into the water encourage the formation of bacteria in the water. These in turn attack the cut flowers, which leads to faster wilting.

What water temperature for Gladioli in the vase?

We recommend placing Gladioli in cold water.

What is the meaning of Gladioli?

Gladioli symbolise pride.

Good and important to know

It is particularly important to note with Gladioli that they are by no means suitable for consumption. Keep the flowers away from children and pets.

Buy Gladioli online