Irises
The stunning iris, which takes its name from the Greek goddess of rainbows, boasts an array of enchanting colors. Despite its divine roots, this plant is sturdy, dependable, and simple to cultivate. Follow these tips to plant and maintain irises for ongoing success in your gardening endeavors.
All told, there are over 250 species in the Iris genus. The most recognizable variety is the tall bearded iris (Iris germanica), which can reach up to three feet in height. These unique flowers have six petals, with three outer drooping petals, or “falls,” and three inner upright petals, known as “standards.”
Irises come in two main types: bearded and crested (also known as “beardless”). Bearded irises get their name from the soft hairs that grow along the center of their falls. Crested varieties like the Siberian iris, on the other hand, have a comb-like ridge instead.
Most irises will bloom from late spring through early summer, though some bearded hybrids are remontant, meaning they may flower again later in the season. Siberian irises typically bloom after their bearded counterparts.
Not only do irises offer a dazzling display in your garden, but they also attract butterflies and hummingbirds and make excellent cut flowers. For ideal companions to plant alongside irises, consider roses, peonies, and lilies.
To ensure your irises thrive, follow these planting guidelines.
For optimal blooming, Irises require at least 6 to 8 hours of daily sunlight. Although they can tolerate half a day of sun, it’s not recommended as they won’t bloom well without enough light. Bearded irises need to be free from shade of other plants and thrive in their own bed. Provide them with fertile, neutral to slightly acidic soil that has good drainage. Irises prefer “wet feet, but dry knees” and cannot tolerate wet soil during winter. It’s best to plant most irises in late summer to early fall, while tall bearded iris varieties are best planted closer to fall. If you have bare rhizomes or irises in a container, it’s better to plant them as soon as possible rather than wait for the ideal time. To plant bare-root rhizomes, dig a hole 10 inches in diameter and 4 inches deep. Place the rhizome on a ridge of soil with the roots spread down both sides, fill in the hole, and firm it gently, leaving part of the rhizome and foliage uncovered. Soak Siberian iris rhizomes in water before planting and set them 1 inch deep, 2 feet apart. Avoid mulching around the rhizome to prevent rot and water thoroughly.
Tips for Growing Irises
Spring is the perfect time to prepare your iris plants for growth. Start by removing winter mulch and old foliage to make way for new shoots. In early spring, fertilize your plants with an all-purpose fertilizer, avoiding high-nitrogen options. If you have reblooming irises, apply fertilizer again once the first wave of flowering is finished.
Don’t overwater your irises, as too much moisture can cause the rhizomes to rot. Instead, water deeply and consistently, especially during summer droughts. Keep the rhizomes exposed to ensure they receive enough sun and air. Taller irises may need staking to prevent them from falling over.
Consistently deadhead your bearded irises to encourage more blooms. After the blooming season, remove the flower stems to discourage rhizome rot. However, do not trim the leaves, as they continue to generate energy for next year’s growth. Only prune brown leaf tips if desired.
In the fall, cut back the foliage after a hard frost and dispose of any spotted or yellowed leaves. Cover the rhizomes with an inch or two of sand and a layer of evergreen boughs for winter protection.
If you spot vertical streaks in your iris leaves, it could be a sign of iris borer. Remove and destroy affected leaves, eggs, and parts of the rhizome to prevent further damage.
If you notice overcrowding in your iris plantings, divide and replant healthy rhizomes every 2 to 5 years for optimal growth and blooming.
To divide irises, wait until after the flowering season has ended. Cut back the foliage to about six inches in length. Around midsummer, carefully lift the clump of irises from the ground. You’ll notice that the original rhizome (or “mother”) has produced several offshoots. Using a sharp knife, separate these offshoots from the mother and discard the mother as it won’t produce flowers anymore. Check the rhizomes for any signs of rotting or disease and remove any infected parts or unhealthy rhizomes. You can plant the fresh rhizomes in a new bed, replant them in their original spot with new soil, or even share them with friends to spread the joy of irises!
SUGGESTED STRAINS
Iris germanica, commonly known as tall bearded irises, are available in various vibrant shades. These plants are typically sowed during autumn. The remontant or rebloomer varieties that bloom twice a year consist of the following strains:
‘Immortality’ produces aromatic white blossoms that appear early and late summer; able to withstand Zone 4 weather.
‘Feed Back’ yields fragrant deep purple blooms and is suitable for Zones 4 to 9.
‘Earl of Essex’ exhibits white flowers with purple edges and can thrive in Zones 3 to 10.
‘Jennifer Rebecca’ bears mauve pink blooms and is perfect for Zones 4 to 9.
The beautiful Siberian irises, or I. sibirica, are a wonderful addition to any garden. Unlike their stately bearded counterparts, these irises have a more delicate appearance but are just as resilient. Not only that, but they are also highly resistant to pests and diseases. With a variety of colors to choose from, two stunning examples are the ‘Blueberry Fair’ with its ruffled blue flowers that grow best in Zones 3 to 8, and the ‘Fond Kiss’ with white flowers tinged with pink that also thrive in Zones 3 to 8.
The impressive Japanese irises, also known as I. ensata, produce large and flat blooms. They require a lot of water during the growing season and are best suited for areas around ponds. During the fall and winter, it’s best to relocate them to drier ground. You can find the ‘Coho’ variety with beautiful pink flowers that have a golden flush, suitable for Zones 4 to 9. The ‘Variegata’ type offers dark purple-reddish flowers and can thrive in Zones 4 to 9 as well.
The Japanese iris, which can be found in the image provided by Pixabay, is a beautiful flower that can be harvested for both gardening and decorative purposes. If you plan to use them for cut flowers, it’s best to gather them when they start to show their color. These types of irises typically have a vase life of anywhere between three to seven days. Additionally, there are various gardening products available that can aid in the growth and maintenance of Japanese irises.
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Looking for a unique cookie cutter to use for baking? Check out the Horse Head Cookie Cutter, available for purchase at just $3.99! Now, for some interesting facts about irises: did you know that they are commonly referred to as the “poor man’s orchids”? They are also depicted in the French royal standard fleur-de-lis and are the emblem of New Orleans, Louisiana, Florence, Italy, and the state flower of Tennessee. Additionally, the dried roots of I. germanica, known as orris root, are used as a scent fixative in perfumes. When it comes to pests and diseases, irises are considered deer-resistant and drought-tolerant. However, they can still be susceptible to issues like bacterial soft rot, blight, nematodes, and more. To prevent and control these problems, it’s important to engage in practices like removing infected plant debris regularly, disinfecting tools, and encouraging beneficial insects like lady beetles and lacewings.