Gladiolas

Every day we have flower related discussions with our customers at the shop. Many times our conversations are held in front of our flower cooler. Our customers graze their visual senses at the many varieties and colors on display and then stop at the tall bucket of Gladiola blooms and confess their feelings about how these majestic blossoms remind them of funerals. Although it is true that Gladiolas are generally present at memorials, they have so much more to offer than just condolences.

Gladiolas have their origions from Africa. Gladiolus, comes from the Latin word gladius meaning "a sword". Although many people think they are related to the lily family, they are not. Surprisingly, Gladiolas are related to the Iris family. One look comparing Iris and Gladiola foliage and you too will be convinced on the relationship. Some of the best Gladiolas we get in, come from Florida. They are shipped to us overnight barely showing any petals or colors. Gladiolas are sensitive to fluoride in the water.  If you ever noticed a brown or "burn" tip of the leaf, that is the effect of the fluoride. The fluoride will not shorten their life but eventually you wont even notice once the blossoms begin to unfold. Gladiolas are also geotropic in that they bend away from gravity. Thus, they are best used in a vertical vase design to prevent the spike tips from curling up. Make sure the vessel you choose holds plenty of water because Gladiolas consume volumes of water. Using a clean knife, angle your cut and carefully place them in your vase. (go to care and handling for more instructions)

For those of you who have tall ceilings at home or office, try a vase of just Gladiolas. They have a vase life of 7-14 days (depending on the temperature of the environment) and the volume of color they give is just magnificent. We generally snap off the very tip to encourage the other blooms to open. They offer a warm grand display for you and your guests at entrance ways, half walls and kitchen islands. It is a different style you may be used to but i guarantee you will love it as much as we do.


See you at the shop, the view is great!

Charles
Chantilly Floral