Description
The tall, beautiful iris, named after the Greek goddess who rode rainbows, comes in ɱaпy magical colors. Despite its divine origins, this beautiful flower is rugged, reliable, and easy to grow. Learn to plant and care for irises for long-term success.
More than 250 species make up the genus Iris. The most familiar irises are the tall bearded irises (Iris gerɱaпica), which reach 2 to 3 feet in height. Their distinctive six-petaled flowers have three outer hanging petals (called “falls”) and three inner upright petals (called “standards”).
Irises may be a bearded or crested (aka “beardless”) type. Bearded iris are so-called because they have soft hairs along the center of their falls. The hairs on crested types, like the Siberian iris, form a comb or ridge instead.
Most irises flower from late spring to early summer. Some—mostly bearded hybrids—are remontant, meaning they may flower again later in the summer. The blooming period of Siberian irises tends to follow that of the bearded types.
Irises attract butterflies and hummingbirds, and make lovely cut flowers. For iris companions in the garden, look to roses, peonies, and lilies.
How to Grow and Care for Irises BlackIn the early spring, remove winter mulch and any old foliage to allow for fresh, new growth.Fertilize in early spring, scratching an all-purpose fertilizer around the plants. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers. Reblooming irises perform best if fertilized again after the first wave of flowering is finished.
When to divide? Do this task after flowering finishes, and then trim the foliage back to six inches.
Shortly after blooming (usually around midsummer), carefully dig up (lift) the clump of irises. You’ll find that the original rhizome that you planted (the “mother”) has produced several offshoot rhizomes.Separate these rhizomes from the mother with a sharp knife and discard the mother, as it will no longer produce blooms. Inspect the rhizomes for any rotting tissue, soft spots, or other signs of disease, removing and discarding infected parts or entire unhealthy rhizomes.Plant these fresh rhizomes in a new bed, replant them where they were before (after adding new soil), or share them with friends and spread the joy of irises!