Origin
Gladiolus permeabilis D.Delaroche subsp. wilsonii (Baker) G.J.Lewis, commonly known as Wilson's gladiolus is a subspecies within the Gladiolus genus. The plant is native to South Africa, particularly in the Eastern Cape province.
Common Names
Wilson's gladiolus is commonly known by its scientific name, however, it also goes by other names including aaneenheidblom (Afrikaans) and iindlebe (Xhosa).
Uses
The plant is primarily used for ornamental purposes. With its beautifully colored flowers, it is a popular garden plant used in many landscapes.
General Appearance
Gladiolus permeabilis D.Delaroche subsp. wilsonii (Baker) G.J.Lewis typically grows up to 60 cm tall and has a corm-shaped root system. The leaves are sword-shaped and usually grow to a length of about 22 cm. The Wilson's gladiolus produces showy flowers, which can be pink, red, or white, and occasionally bi-colored. The flowers are arranged on a tall spike and can grow up to 9 cm long. The plant typically blooms from mid-summer to early autumn, and thrives in full sunlight and well-drained soil.
Light Requirements
Gladiolus permeabilis subsp. wilsonii thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade. The plants need at least six hours of direct sunlight a day to flower properly.
Temperature Requirements
These plants prefer warm temperatures between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit during the day. Nighttime temperatures should not fall below 50 degrees Fahrenheit. Gladiolus permeabilis subsp. wilsonii is not suitable for locations with harsh winters.
Soil Requirements
The plant grows best in well-drained soil. A sandy loam mixture with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0 is ideal. Heavy clay soils can cause the bulbs to rot. Before planting, it is advisable to amend the soil with organic matter to improve its quality.
Watering and Fertilization
Gladiolus permeabilis subsp. wilsonii requires moderate watering but should not be watered excessively. The best time to water is in the early morning or late afternoon. Fertilization is necessary for optimal growth. A balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium should be applied approximately every two weeks.
Other requirements
It is recommended to stake the plants because they are prone to falling. Also, it is advisable to remove the faded flowers and stems after blooming to encourage new growth.
Cultivation Methods
Gladiolus permeabilis D.Delaroche subsp. wilsonii (Baker) G.J.Lewis is a bulbous perennial that is relatively easy to cultivate. The plants require well-draining soil and plenty of sunlight. They grow best in temperate climates. Before planting, prepare the soil by adding compost or manure, and ensuring that it is well-draining. Plant the bulbs in the spring, around 6 inches deep and 6 inches apart. Gladiolus permeabilis D.Delaroche subsp. wilsonii (Baker) G.J.Lewis performs best in full sun. It can tolerate partial shade but will not flower as well in these conditions.Watering Needs
Gladiolus permeabilis D.Delaroche subsp. wilsonii (Baker) G.J.Lewis requires moderate watering. The plants should be watered when the top inch of soil feels dry. Overwatering can lead to rotting of the bulbs, so it is important to ensure proper drainage. It is best to water the plants early in the morning or late in the evening, rather than during the heat of the day. This reduces water loss due to evaporation and helps prevent fungal diseases.Fertilization
Gladiolus permeabilis D.Delaroche subsp. wilsonii (Baker) G.J.Lewis benefits from regular fertilization. Use a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 or 20-20-20, once per month during the growing season. Fertilizer should be applied to moist soil around the base of the plant. Avoid getting fertilizer on the leaves or flowers, as this can cause damage.Pruning
Gladiolus permeabilis D.Delaroche subsp. wilsonii (Baker) G.J.Lewis does not require extensive pruning. Deadhead spent flowers regularly to encourage the plant to produce more blooms. After the blooming season, allow the foliage to die back naturally. Do not cut it back until it has turned yellow or brown. This allows the plant to store energy in the bulbs for the following year's growth. Once the foliage has died back, cut it back to ground level.Propagation of Gladiolus Permeabilis D. Delaroche subsp. Wilsonii (Baker) G.J.Lewis
Gladiolus permeabilis D.Delaroche subsp. wilsonii (Baker) G.J.Lewis, commonly known as Wilson's Sword Lily, is a beautiful ornamental plant. It is propagated through vegetative means. The following are the most common propagation methods for this plant:
Division of Corms
The most popular method of propagation for Gladiolus permeabilis D.Delaroche subsp. wilsonii (Baker) G.J.Lewis is division of corms. This is the separation of the corms into smaller sections, each of which can grow into a new plant. The best time to divide corms is in early winter or early spring.
Cuttings
Another propagation method for Gladiolus permeabilis D.Delaroche subsp. wilsonii (Baker) G.J.Lewis is taking cuttings. Cuttings of the plant can be taken during the growing season and should be about 2 inches long. The cuttings should be dipped in a rooting hormone and planted in a well-draining soil mix. Keep the soil slightly moist and the cutting in a bright location, but not in direct sunlight.
Seed Propagation
The propagation of Gladiolus permeabilis D.Delaroche subsp. wilsonii (Baker) G.J.Lewis through seed is also possible, but it is not a popular method. The seeds should be sown in early spring in a well-draining soil mix and kept moist. The seedlings will take around two to three years to reach maturity.
Disease Management
Gladiolus permeabilis D.Delaroche subsp. wilsonii (Baker) G.J.Lewis, like other plants, is susceptible to various diseases. Here are some common diseases that might affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Corm rot
Corm rot is a fungal disease that affects the corms of Gladiolus. It is usually caused by a combination of factors such as poor drainage, fungi, and bacteria. To manage corm rot, growers should ensure proper drainage and avoid planting in poorly drained soils. Infected corms should be removed immediately, and the remaining corms treated with fungicide.
Fusarium wilt
Fusarium wilt is also a fungal disease that affects the vascular system of the plant, causing wilting and yellowing of the leaves. Growers should avoid planting susceptible varieties and ensure good sanitation practices, including cleaning of tools and equipment. Infected plants should be removed and destroyed immediately to prevent the spread of the disease.
Virus diseases
Gladiolus plants are prone to several virus diseases, including cucumber mosaic virus and tomato spotted wilt virus. These viruses are usually transmitted by aphids or thrips. To manage these diseases, growers should use insecticides to control the vectors. Infected plants should be removed and destroyed to prevent the spread of the disease.
Pest Management
Gladiolus permeabilis D.Delaroche subsp. wilsonii (Baker) G.J.Lewis is also vulnerable to a variety of pests. Here are some common pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Thrips
Thrips are tiny insects that feed on the flowers and leaves of Gladiolus plants, causing discolored and distorted tissues. To manage thrips, growers should apply insecticides regularly and remove and destroy infested plants.
Spider mites
Spider mites are another common pest that feeds on the leaves of Gladiolus plants, causing yellowed and speckled leaves. Growers should inspect plants regularly, and if infested, apply insecticidal soap or oil. Natural enemies such as predatory mites and lacewings can also be introduced to control spider mites.
Aphids
Aphids are soft-bodied insects that feed on the sap of the plant, causing distorted leaves and stunted growth. To manage aphids, growers should apply insecticides or use natural enemies such as ladybugs or parasitic wasps to control the population. Regular washing of the plants with a strong spray of water can also be beneficial in reducing their numbers.
By following these measures, growers can manage the diseases and pests that might affect Gladiolus permeabilis D.Delaroche subsp. wilsonii (Baker) G.J.Lewis and ensure healthy growth and development of the plant.
