A healthy corm should have smooth husks that are not discolored or damaged. The corm itself should be firm and without any dark areas or spots on the surface after the husk is removed. The base of the corm, where the old corm was removed, should be firm. The size of the plant and spike produced is directly related to the size of the corm that is planted. Occasionally under ideal growing conditions, a flower will be produced by sizes 4 and 5.
Corms are most productive during their first six years.
Often as they become older they may decline in vigor. For this reason it is desirable to save cormels to develop a constant supply of young, vigorous corms. Cultural practices Soil. Gladioli can be grown well in many different soil types. If there is any possibility of selecting soils, a loam or sandy loam should be preferred.