Released September 18, 2009
PINE BLUFF, Ark. - Because growing gladiolus for cut flower production could be a profitable alternative enterprise for growers in southeast Arkansas, University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff researchers Shahidul Islam, professor of agriculture; Joseph Onyilagha, research associate; and Laure Anderson, research assistant, evaluated available species for survival and performance. Their first year trial suggests that southeast Arkansas is conducive to the growth of gladiolus.
Of eight varieties studied, “Expresso” produced the greatest number of flowers per stem, followed by Fire-Cracker. The varieties Plum Tart, Mixed Colors and Expresso produced the largest sized flowers.
Although all eight varieties were planted within the same period, they did not bloom at the same time due to differences in their genetic characteristics. Arabian Night began blooming the first week of June while Mixed Colors and Wigs Sensation began blooming in July. See chart.
Bulbs were sourced from shops and private gardens in late summer 2007 and stored at 40 degrees Fahrenheit until late spring 2008. They were planted in pots containing high nutrient PROMIX substrate and left in the greenhouse maintained at 77 degrees Fahrenheit with 16 hours of daylight, eight hours of darkness and 60 percent relative humidity. Plants were transferred to the field when they reached the third leaf stage and planted in plots 25 feet long by 2 feet wide.
Islam and Onyilaha suggest selecting varieties for vigorous growth and early flowering but because southeast Arkansas is prone to drought in the summer, drought tolerance should also be a factor in variety selection.
--30—
http://www.uaex.edu/news/september2009/0918uapb.htm
Writer: Carol Sanders, (870) 575-7238, sanders_c@uapb.edu
