Q.Growing Gladiolus
I’ve planted them in pots on my patio. When I placed the pot into direct sunlight (afternoon only), all the beginning leaves bent over. When I saw this, I moved it away from direct sunlight and put it back in the corner where it will be guarded from direct light. What kind of “stakes “should I buy to help them grow up straight?

Varieties that are smaller are more suited to containers.
Supports are generally needed for the flowers.
Gladiola do need full sun, I think the bending over is due to the height of the plants, not the light conditions.
Here is an excellent article that will help you with container Gladiola.
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/bulbs/gladiola/growing-glads-in-containers.htm