Gladiolus will appreciate 2 to 4 inches of mulch around them to keep weeds in check. This will also conserve the moisture in the soil. Most gladioli will also appreciate some kind of support such as bamboo stakes or specialty made support. The soil should be well drained and light.1
Try to plant in a location that enjoys full sun and remember to water moderately. Espresso is generally regarded as a half hardy plant, so it will require protection in frosts and low temperatures. Espresso needs a soil ph of 6.7 to 7.0 (weakly acidic soil - neutral soil).gladioli
1 http://www.almanac.com/plant/gladiolus