What to Plant With Gladiolus? Ideal Companion Plants

Yewhort is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Gladiolus (Gladiolus spp.), also known as “glads,” are stunning flowers known for their tall spikes of vibrant blooms. These summer-blooming bulbs can create a dramatic focal point in your garden. Pairing them with the right companion plants can enhance their beauty and create a harmonious garden display. Here’s a guide on what to plant with gladiolus to ensure a thriving and visually appealing garden.

Growing Conditions and Characteristics for Gladiolus

• Sun or Shade: Full sun.
• Summer or Winter: Summer blooming.
• Perennial or Annual: Perennial in USDA zones 7-10, often grown as annuals in cooler climates.

Best Companion Plants for Gladiolus

1. Marigolds (Tagetes spp.)

   • Benefits: Marigolds help repel nematodes and other pests that can harm gladiolus bulbs.
   • Growing Conditions: Full sun.
   • Aesthetic Appeal: Their bright, cheerful blooms complement the vertical spikes of gladiolus.
   • Perennial or Annual: Annual.
   • Summer or Winter: Summer.

2. Zinnias (Zinnia spp.)

   • Benefits: Zinnias attract beneficial insects and pollinators to the garden.
   • Growing Conditions: Full sun.
   • Aesthetic Appeal: Their bold, colorful blooms add a lively contrast to gladiolus spikes.
   • Perennial or Annual: Annual.
   • Summer or Winter: Summer.

3. Dahlias (Dahlia spp.)

   • Benefits: Dahlias share similar growing conditions and bloom times with gladiolus.
   • Growing Conditions: Full sun.
   • Aesthetic Appeal: Their varied bloom shapes and sizes add texture and interest.
   • Perennial or Annual: Perennial in USDA zones 8-10, grown as annuals in cooler climates.
   • Summer or Winter: Summer.

4. Cosmos (Cosmos spp.)

   • Benefits: Cosmos attract pollinators and beneficial insects, which help with pest control.
   • Growing Conditions: Full sun.
   • Aesthetic Appeal: Their delicate, airy blooms provide a nice contrast to the sturdy gladiolus spikes.
   • Perennial or Annual: Annual.
   • Summer or Winter: Summer.

5. Liatris (Liatris spicata)

   • Benefits: Liatris, with its tall, spiky flowers, complements the vertical growth habit of gladiolus.
   • Growing Conditions: Full sun.
   • Aesthetic Appeal: The purple spikes of liatris provide a striking contrast to the varied colors of gladiolus.
   • Perennial or Annual: Perennial.
   • Summer or Winter: Summer.

6. Echinacea (Echinacea purpurea)

   • Benefits: Echinacea attracts pollinators and provides a sturdy, upright form that complements gladiolus.
   • Growing Conditions: Full sun.
   • Aesthetic Appeal: The coneflowers add a daisy-like bloom that contrasts with the spiky gladiolus.
   • Perennial or Annual: Perennial.
   • Summer or Winter: Summer.

Planting and Care Tips

1. Soil Preparation: Gladiolus prefer well-drained soil rich in organic matter. Amend the soil with compost or well-rotted manure before planting.
2. Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, especially during the growing season. Reduce watering once the flowers have faded.
3. Mulching: Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the plants to retain soil moisture, regulate temperature, and suppress weeds.
4. Fertilizing: Use a balanced fertilizer at planting time and again when the flower spikes begin to appear.
5. Staking: Gladiolus spikes can be tall and may need staking to prevent them from toppling over, especially in windy conditions.

By selecting the right companion plants and following proper planting and care tips, you can create a stunning garden display that highlights the beauty of gladiolus. Happy gardening!