Failure Of Gladioli To Bloom

Question

For the second year running, potted gladioli have failed to ‘bloom’. Attributed it to drought last year, much, much rain, and also watered, this. Stored March-May in unused garage, both in packs, and loose, bought from 3 different sources. Growth immediate, right up to full height. Yet, of 110 planted, only six have formed ‘corns?’ – and these simply fail fully to open, and ‘wither on the vine’, without producing anywhere near proper blooms. Could it be the compost, which they inherit from (always wonderfully productive) tulips? Was never a problem when compost was changed, in between

Answer 1

I wouldn't think it was the compost, but too much nitrogen can prevent blooms. Try adding some bone meal. It could be a disease or virus overwintered with them. Also make sure the containers drain well. Here is more:

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/bulbs/gladiola/care-of-gladiolas-how-to-grow-gladiolas-in-your-garden.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/bulbs/gladiola/getting-gladiolus-to-bloom.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/bulbs/gladiola/growing-glads-in-containers.htm