![]() Firm the soil well and water thoroughly.Īfter three to five years, iris generally become crowded and should be divided. In heavy clay soils the rhizome should be planted higher so that up to half of the rhizome is exposed above soil level. Then fill the trenches with soil, letting the top surface of the rhizome be just barely beneath the surface of the soil. Dig two trenches with a ridge between them, place the rhizome on the ridge and spread the roots carefully in the trenches. Plant iris with the rhizome high in the soil, and the roots well-anchored. Reblooming varieties, however, are more likely to rebloom with supplemental food and water after spring bloom.Ĭorrect way to plant iris with the rhizome high in the soil, and the roots well-anchored It is better to underfeed than to overfeed bearded iris. When feeding established iris, do not let fertilizer touch the rhizomes. Work the fertilizer into the soil and let the bed settle before planting. In the absence of test results apply 1 pound of 5-10-10 per 100 square feet. ![]() Follow soil test recommendations for best results. It is a good idea to test your soil and amend the soil before planting a new iris bed.įertilize a new iris bed when preparing the soil before planting with a complete fertilizer low in nitrogen and high in phosphorus and potassium. Many of the beardless iris like a more acid soil. Manure can encourage iris soft rot.īearded iris prefer slightly alkaline soil. Do not use manure unless it is very well-composted (aged for at least one year). If your soil is not ideal you can amend it with organic matter and build raised beds for better drainage. Japanese and Louisiana iris will grow in wet soil. Iris should be planted in an area with good air circulation to help prevent disease problems. In very hot areas though, some shade in the afternoon will help keep flower colors from fading in the heat. Most iris, especially bearded iris, will grow best with full sun for at least 6 to 8 hours a day. The bold sword shaped foliage is also an excellent contrast to the more mounded forms of many garden plants. Iris are grown for their graceful flowers in an endless array of brilliant colors. Their growth rate varies by species and type. Iris are dependable, long-lived perennials. Bearded iris ranges from about 6 inches in the miniatures to more than 3 feet in the large types. ![]() The many different species vary from low ground covers such as Iris cristata at only 6 inches tall to some of the large Japanese iris at 3 to 4 feet tall. Photo by Joey Williamson, ©2007 HGIC, Clemson Extension Height/Spread Crested Iris ( Iris cristata), a low growing native species. ![]()
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |