Abstract
Abstract Leaf area required for development of flowering-size corms following simulated mowing of gladiolus spikes was determined and mowing height was compared to leaf area retained. Plants were sheared from 12 to 40 cm above the top of the beds in 4 cm increments. Shearing plants 12, 24, or 36 cm above the soil level left 5, 18, and 38% of the leaf area, respectively, compared to intact plants. Mowing at these heights reduced corm weight 76, 65, and 39%, total cormel weight 92, 62, and 22%, and number of corms ≥3.8 cm in diameter 96, 76, and 33%, respectively. Minimum shearing height for development of usable daughter corms for subsequent flower production was 28 cm.
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