Experienced gardeners told how to dry gladiolus bulbs so that rot does not occur

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In late autumn, work with flowers continues in the garden. It is necessary to dig up and prepare gladiolus for wintering. The bulbs are taken out of the soil when all the leaves and stems have already dried and the first frosts will come.

How to avoid problems

Gladioluses should be dug up 45 days after the end of flowering. That is why it is not recommended that they bloom until late autumn. Bulbs will not have time to prepare and accumulate the necessary substances for wintering and flowering in the next season.

Bulbs must be cleaned, washed from dirt, treated from pests. They have a tendency to rot. However, this can be avoided if you follow the requirements for the preparation of planting material.

After washing, put the bulbs in a weak solution of potassium permanganate for 20 minutes. This will disinfect them. You can use the insecticide “Inta-Vir” to enhance the effect.

Processed bulbs should be placed on the table for several hours to dry. Then cut the stem, leaving a stump of 2-3 cm. Trim the roots.

Dry the bulbs at a temperature of 20-30 degrees for 2 weeks. Then put them in boxes and keep them indoors at 20 degrees for another month.

Dried gladioli are stored in cardboard boxes in cool, dark rooms at a temperature of +5-10 degrees. Bulbs should be inspected during storage. If damage by rodents or diseases is found, such specimens must be removed.