The more sun, the sturdier the plants. Gladiolus are grown primarily for cutting and are prized for their unique appearance and variety of colors. Individual plants bloom only a week to 10 days, but you can extend the bloom by planting the corms at intervals of 7 to 10 days, starting after the last spring frost and continuing until 2 months before the first fall frost. Plants can be held erect by mounding earth around the stems to the height of about 6 inches. Or, you can stake the plants.
All gladiolus have sword-shaped foliage that remains green until frost.
Lilies create a very special focal point in any summer Garden. Plant in groups of at least three for the greatest effect. Lilies do best with 5 to 6 hours of sun a day, but tiger lilies and wood lilies tolerate light shade. They are usually grown for cutting and come in every color except green and blue. Each plant bears several flowers on 18-inch stalks and may produce up to 75 flowers a season.