Tips for growing gladioli and lawn seeding in late summer

The gladiolus produces a large, showy flower spike that lasts for several days whether in the garden or in a vase. Courtesy of Chicago Botanic Garden

I have fond memories of growing gladioli as a kid growing up in Nebraska — and at this point in summer I’m seeing them in bloom around the Chicago area.

The gladiolus produces a large, showy flower spike that lasts for several days whether in the garden or in a vase. To get the most out of this bloom for decoration inside, cut when the lowest blossoms have started to show color, and place the cut stem in water as quickly as you can. In the garden, if you stagger planting gladioli every couple of weeks, you’ll have flowers over a longer period of time. This plant likes full sun and well-drained soil.

Lawn seeding

Mid-August to mid-Septemb