Cutting of peduncles is carried out in the morning or after sunset. At least four leaf plates are kept on the bush so that the bulbs grow and develop further.
Flowers without inflorescences are left in the garden for about a month and a half. It is necessary to allow the bulbs to accumulate nutrients and strengthen the immune system. During this period, the aboveground part will turn yellow and wither away.
For wintering in the ground without consequences, only the bulbs of the species gladioli can be left. Shredded gladiolus can also be left to winter outdoors. All other varieties are not suitable for this. In case of frost, the plants should be protected with a covering material. Bulbs can overwinter in the temperature range of 3-9 degrees Celsius. There are practically no such temperatures in winter, except for the southern regions. Therefore, it is recommended to dig up the bulbs.
Digging up gladioli after flowering
You should get rid of flower arrows in advance so that they do not take away the vital energy of the plant. When digging up flowers, varieties with a dark coloration are first removed.
The general principle should be observed: first of all, the early varieties are dug, then the middle ones, and at the end - the late ones. During the procedure, the temperature should not fall below -7 degrees.
Storage preparation
Harvesting plants begins with the grower preparing storage containers. These should be boxes with a fine mesh bottom. First, the bulbs are shaken off over the film, and then the stems are cut off, leaving a stump of 1 cm. All this is recommended to be done immediately after digging. Bacteria and pests can get to the bulbs from the leaves.
When the primary treatment is carried out, the corms should dry in the air for about 7 days, if there is a positive temperature.
Tubers should be treated with insecticides, especially if gladioli are infected with thrips. Fungicides can be used if the grower notices leaf damage. If there are no signs of disease, then the plants should be treated with potassium permanganate or boric acid solution.
After pickling, the bulbs need to dry out again. If wet bulbs get into the storage, then most likely fungal diseases will appear. The bulbs are laid out in boxes with paper at the bottom. They are left for several weeks in a room where the temperature is 25 to 30 degrees Celsius. The bulbs should be turned over regularly.
After the corms have dried, they should be carefully examined. Only completely healthy gladioli can be stored. Storage is allowed in such places:
- cellars;
- balconies;
- fridge;
- room with an open window.
It is imperative to maintain temperature and humidity levels. The humidity should be 60%, and the temperature should range from 3 to 9 degrees Celsius. There must be good ventilation in boxes, bags and in the room. If the storage rules are not followed, sprouts will appear.
Read also: What can not be done when pickling cabbage? We analyze the main mistakes
Friends, do not forget to subscribe to the channel and LIKE if the article is useful!
#gladioli#digging and storing#preparing for winter