Should You Soak Gladiolus Bulbs Before Planting?

With their tall, dramatic flower spikes in vibrant colors, gladiolus are classic summer garden showstoppers To get these bulbs off to a strong start, some gardeners recommend soaking the corms before planting But is this really necessary or beneficial? Let’s take a look at the reasons for and against pre-soaking gladiolus prior to planting.

What is Pre-Soaking?

Pre-soaking, also called pre-chilling, means placing dry dormant gladiolus corms (bulbs) in water to rehydrate for a period of time before planting them in the garden. This process allows the dry, shriveled corms to absorb water and plump up. Soaked corms will be turgid (swollen) and firm when its time to plant them.

Soaking is thought to give the bulbs a head start allowing sprouts and roots to emerge faster once planted. It may also help prevent slower weaker sprouting that can happen if bulbs must work harder to absorb soil moisture after planting.

Reasons to Pre-Soak Gladiolus Corms

Here are some of the touted benefits of pre-soaking gladioli before getting them in the ground:

• Faster emergence – Corms can sprout 1-2 weeks sooner when pre-soaked versus dry planted You’ll get quicker blooms

• More uniform sprouting – Even water absorption helps all corms develop at the same rate for a consistent bloom time.

• Stronger sprouts – Well-hydrated corms send up more vigorous sprouts that establish better after planting.

• Prevents planting damage – Dry, shriveled corms are brittle and prone to damage when being planted. Soaking makes them plump and flexible.

• Lessens transplant shock – Corms don’t have to work as hard to absorb soil moisture, reducing stress after planting.

• Bypasses bad soils – Prevents issues if garden soil lacks adequate moisture and nutrition to support new growth.

For many gardeners, faster and more reliable sprouting are the main advantages of gladiolus pre-soaking. But there are also some reasons you may want to skip the soaking step.

Reasons to Skip Pre-Soaking Gladiolus Corms

Here are a few things to consider regarding skipping the pre-soak:

• Added time and effort – Soaking requires an extra step in the planting process and takes 1-2 days.

• Possible mold growth – Cold, damp conditions can cause mold to develop on corms during extended soaking.

• Premature sprouting – Corms may actually sprout leaves before being planted if soaked too long.

• No guarantees – There are no definite guarantees that soaking will produce better results.

• Well-hydrated corms – Some commercially prepared corms are already hydrated enough from treatment and storage methods.

• Adequate soil – In soils with sufficient moisture and nutrients, pre-soaking provides less benefit.

• Cooler climates – Slow emergence from direct dry planting poses less of an issue in locations with cooler spring soils.

If your corms are plump, planting conditions are ideal, and you don’t mind waiting a week or so for sprouts, skipping pre-soaking is a valid option.

How to Soak Gladiolus Corms the Right Way

If you do wish to pre-soak your gladiolus prior to planting, follow these tips:

• Start with plump corms – Shriveled, super dry corms will absorb water faster and benefit most from soaking. Avoid mushy corms.

• Use room temperature water – Warm water encourages rotting. Use cool water around 60°F-70°F.

• Soak 6-24 hours – The longer the soak, the more thoroughly corms imbibe water, but avoid exceeding 24 hours.

• Use clean container – Soak corms in a disinfected bucket, bowl, or tub to prevent disease transmission.

• Keep corms in single layer – Resist stacking corms to prevent mold growth between them.

• Don’t let corms sprout – Drain any water and plant promptly if growth appears to avoid weak sprouts.

• Plant soaked corms immediately – Don’t leave them lying around wet after soaking. Get them in the ground ASAP.

Follow these guidelines precisely to gain the most benefit from soaking your gladiolus corms before planting them in the garden.

Should You Soak Other Flower Bulbs?

Pre-soaking can help hydrate any dried-out bulb, corm, rhizome, or tuber type prior to planting. Some options include:

• Dahlias
• Begonias
• Caladiums
• Cannas
• Ginger
• Lilies
• Elephant ears

But many bulbs actually prefer being planted dry, like tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths. These bulbs can rot if soaked too long. Do your research before pre-soaking bulbs, as soaking benefits depends on the variety.

To Soak or Not To Soak?

In the end, deciding whether or not to soak gladiolus corms is a personal choice based on your specific conditions. Soaking may provide an advantage in warmer climates with drier soils where moisture is limited early in the season. Extra time and hassle may not be warranted in cooler zones with adequate spring moisture.

If you do soak, take care to do it properly and plant immediately after for best results. Either way, with good corms, suitable soils, ample moisture and sunlight, you can expect a spectacular display of gorgeous gladiolus blooms by midsummer!