CULTURE 
Gladiolus bulbs should be planted in full sunshine 
and will not thrive in shady places. If planted in rows 
we recommend a double row with bulbs about 4 inches 
apart; if in beds plant from 4 to 6 inches each way. 
Plant from 4 to 6 inches deep on moderately rich soil 
and do not allow bulbs to come in contact with fresh 
manure. It is best to apply manure in the fall and dig 
it into the soil in the spring. They may be planted any 
time after the ground is fit to work and should be kept 
free from weeds at all times. With clean cultivation it 
is seldom necessary to apply water, but if it becomes 
necessary, water very thoroughly about once a week, 
rather than a little every day. 
When cutting flowers leave 4 full leaves to mature 
the bulb. Remove faded flowers and cut off a little of 
the stem every day and they will last a week or more in 
good condition. 
When leaves turn yellow or are killed by frost dig up 
the bulbs, cut off the tops close to the bulb, and spread 
out in the sun to dry. When thoroughly dry place in 
shallow boxes and in a dry frost proof place. Do not 
store in tight bags or in deep boxes as they must have 
good ventilation or they will mold and rot. The old 
dried up bulb and bulblets may be removed at any time 
before planting. 
If you have the room you will find much more enjoy¬ 
ment in planting the bulblets and watching them de¬ 
velop. Plant thickly in rows about 2 inches deep early 
in the season. While germination is somewhat uncer¬ 
tain yet if you have fair success you will find this a 
very inexpensive way to secure a stock of some of the 
higher priced varieties. 
