How many pinks?
Pink gladioli cover a wide spread of tones, with salmon, coral and lavender-pink at the edges. Many have a darker flash or a cream throat, and the ruffled petals catch the light in a way plain colours do not. Because shade varies by variety, it helps to see the stem in daylight if a particular pink matters for a wedding.
The message of pink
The gladiolus is traditionally a flower of strength and integrity, and pink softens it into something gentler: affection, grace and admiration. People looking for the meaning of a pink gladiolus will find that it suits birthday gifts and anniversaries, as well as a thank-you for someone you respect. For Mother's Day in May, a few pink spikes with a mum are a taller alternative to the usual chrysanthemum.
Succession planting
If you want pink in the vase for months, plant a few corms every two weeks over spring and early summer, because one planting flowers for only a short period. In warm northern areas, plant from autumn so that the flowers appear before the wet season.
What can go wrong
- Thrips spoil petals with silvery streaks; a spray of soapy water or a registered treatment may help.
- Wet soil rots the corms, so raise the bed if drainage is poor.
- Leaning spikes need a stake or a small windbreak.
- Weaker flowering in successive years often means the corms need replacing.
Safe handling
Dogs, cats and horses can be harmed by gladiolus, according to the ASPCA's plant list, and the corms are the part of most concern. Store them out of reach, and wash your hands after handling soil or corms.
