Digging and Dividing Gladiolus Corms in Fall

Gladiolus corms are winter-hardy in the ground but benefit from digging every few years. Otherwise, baby cormels crowd the mother corm, reducing blooms. Lift with a spading fork. You'll find a large corm (≈2″) and many small cormels (¼–½″). Replant large corms now where you want flowers, or store cool and dry for April planting. Plant cormels in a nursery bed to grow on for future blooms, or save for spring. All bulbs need sharp drainage to avoid rot.