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1.
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What growing
conditions do bearded irises require?
Bearded irises need well-drained neutral pH soil with
as much sunlight as possible. A half day of sunshine is the
minimum. More sunlight is preferable.
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2.
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Is there any location where
bearded irises won’t grow?
Bearded irises require a definite winter
season. They won’t grow well (or bloom) in south Florida, south
Texas, or coastal areas.
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3.
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How much water do bearded
irises require?
Not much. Ordinarily, average rainfall is
adequate. The fastest way to kill your irises is to water them too
much or too often during the summer.
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4.
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When should I plant my
bearded irises?
Plant new irises immediately after you get
them. They need at least six to eight weeks to get well
established before winter begins.
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5.
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When should I dig and
thin my bearded irises?
Every three to four years you should dig, thin,
and replant bearded irises in late summer or early autumn. Keep
the rhizomes which have white roots and green leaves. Discard the
rest. For easier planting, trim the roots to two inches long. Cut
the leaves back to about six inches in length with the center leaf
of the fan being the longest.
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6.
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How far apart should bearded
irises be planted?
Tall bearded irises (over 27") should be
planted 12 to 18 inches apart. Median irises (between 10" and
26") should be planted 8 to 12 inches apart. They need the
space to expand as they multiply.
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7.
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How deep should bearded irises
be planted?
In warmer climates, plant the iris with the top
of rhizome just below ground level. In colder climates, plant the
iris about one-half to one inch deep. Water well after planting;
then water again in a couple of days. After that, normal rainfall
should be adequate.
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8.
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What fertilizer do bearded
irises require?
Fertilize your irises twice a year using a
formula that is high in phosphorus (that is the middle number). Do
not feed lawn fertilizer to irises or allow lawn fertilizer to
travel into the iris beds. Lawn fertilize is high in nitrogen
(that is the first number) which causes lush growth and little to
no flowering.
Ideally, feed your irises about six weeks before bloom time and
about six weeks before winter.
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9.
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My irises look healthy but they
don’t grow, increase, or bloom -- what’s wrong?
Sounds like the pH level of your soil is not
compatible to the plants’ needs. Have your soil tested so
you’ll know exactly what pH and other elements you have. Irises
prefer a neutral pH (7.0). If your pH is high, your soil is
alkaline and can be amended by adding sulfur. If your pH is low,
your soil is acid and can be amended by adding lime.
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10.
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We’ve sold our house and are
getting ready to move. How can I take some of my irises with me?
As you dig each of your favorite irises, use a
Sharpie marker to write the iris name or color on the center back
of the leaves. Trim the roots and the leaves as described above.
Place the irises in a cardboard box or paper sack (not a plastic
bag). Keep them cool and DRY (not refrigerated). Replant them as
soon as possible - within two to three weeks maximum. If you are
moving during very cold or very hot weather, you may need to pot
the irises and keep them in a shaded location until the ground
temperature modifies.
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