Commercial Floriculture

Harvesting of spikes and post harvest operations

Harvesting of Spikes
• Gladiolus takes 60-120 days to produce spikes.
• The spikes of gladiolus generally exhibit vase life of about 7-15 days.
• The spikes should be harvested in the morning or evening hours when temperatures are mild.
• Spikes should preferably be cut with sharp knives or secateurs.
• While harvesting, at least four basal leaves should be retained on the plant to ensure proper development of corms and cormels.
• The stage at which the spike is to be cut should depend upon the transportation distance, consumer requirement and prevailing temperature conditions.