i'm not even sure what kind of flower this is. I vaguely remember planting some bulbs last season, but I don't think I even knew what I planted. Regardless, it sure looks strong and healthy. Can anyone shed some light on its name? Also, should I stake it or support it in some way? I feel like it's going to tip over any moment!
This looks like gladiole. I have never seen one with such a long flower stalk. I never stake up my gladiolus, but this one looks really long, so I don't know.
Yeah...I've never really heard of staking bulbs either, which is why I asked the question! But I just can't wrap my wits around how tall thing is!
I've had to stake some bulbs before now Ronni. Mainly some of my iris which get over two and a half feet tall and can be damaged by the wind. I use a bamboo cane and stick it in the ground a couple of inches from the main stalk of the plant to avoid bruising the bulb. I use jute string tied firmly but not tightly in a figure of eight around the cane and the plant and it works well for me. Good luck with your gladiolus and do let us see it when it flowers for you.
Yep Gladiolus and yes they will get very tall depending on the species, some cultivars are not very strong. You will probably need to stake it to keep it from falling completely over and possibly breaking. Next Fall, dig them up and replant them about 6-8 inches deep in the ground, that will help the stem grow stronger before it breaks through the soil surface and keep the stem from leaning so much. Or next Spring as they grow taller keep mounding soil around them to give them the strength they need.
When the flowers open it will be laying on the ground unless you do. Of course then you can cut it off and put it in a jar of water in the house and enjoy it more.
