Question
I've noticed a pod of some sort on the stems where the flowers bloomed. Is this just what remains after the flower dies and drops off?  Should I go ahead and cut the stem off or leave it because these pods have some use?

Answer
Hi Karla,
Thanx for your question.  Sometimes a seed pod will form on gladioli.  If you live in an area where the corms (bulbs) can be left in the ground or if you lift the corms in the autumn to overwinter in a frost-free atmosphere, I would let the stalks turn brown and then cut them to the ground.  While green, the stalks are gathering energy from the sun which is converted into starches and sugars stored in the corm for next year's growth and bloom.  I live in the Midwest and let the first frost take care of the stalks if they hadn't dried out yet and then I would lift the corms.  They're so cheap though, I don't bother anymore.  Hope this helps.
Tom