Gladiolas/Orchids - encouring new bulbs.
 

Ok,, newbie here so I hope my question is not toooo stupid. :)
I have the following types of Perrenials this question applies to:
Gladiolas
Chinese Orchids
Asiatic Lillies

My understanding is these should sprout additional bulbs (self
multiply)
If that is correct, is there a way to encourage the
self-multiplication by when the stocks or sprouts are cut?

They are all done blooming of course and I did use some for cut
flowers but now I am wondering should I cut the remaining part still
above the ground now or wait until the stuff turns brown or dies.

Any help appreciated.
Thanks.

On 1 Sep 2004 16:10:03 -0700, (Rick) wrote:

I have the following types of Perrenials this question applies to:
Gladiolas
Chinese Orchids
Asiatic Lillies

My understanding is these should sprout additional bulbs (self
multiply)
If that is correct, is there a way to encourage the
self-multiplication by when the stocks or sprouts are cut?

They are all done blooming of course and I did use some for cut
flowers but now I am wondering should I cut the remaining part still
above the ground now or wait until the stuff turns brown or dies.

Don't know about Chinese orchids, but the most encouraging thing you
can do for glads and lilies is to remove the flowers (stalks for
glads; top pouf for lilies) and leave the foliage 'til it dies down on
its own. It is making and storing energy in the bulb(s) for next year.