Overwintering guide
How to overwinter painted lady gladiolus
Winter watering
Water only occasionally — enough that the rootball never dries out completely, no more. No feeding until spring growth begins.
The mistake that kills painted lady gladiolus in winter
Bringing painted lady gladiolus into a warm living room. Too much winter warmth forces weak, pale growth that collapses when it goes back outside — cool and bright beats warm and dim.
More painted lady gladiolus care
Overwintering painted lady gladiolus — FAQ
Does painted lady gladiolus need to come indoors for winter?
Painted Lady Gladiolus is hardy to roughly USDA zone 9 — winter lows around -7°C. That means it takes cool conditions but not a real freeze. Painted Lady Gladiolus will take cool conditions but not a hard freeze, so the aim is a frost-free winter rather than a warm one. An unheated greenhouse, porch, conservatory or bright garage all work well. Keep it cool, bright and on the dry side, and it will hold steady until growth restarts in spring.
When should I move painted lady gladiolus for winter?
Move under cover before the first hard frost; back outside after the last spring frost.
How often should I water painted lady gladiolus in winter?
Water only occasionally — enough that the rootball never dries out completely, no more. No feeding until spring growth begins.
What kills painted lady gladiolus over winter?
Bringing painted lady gladiolus into a warm living room. Too much winter warmth forces weak, pale growth that collapses when it goes back outside — cool and bright beats warm and dim.