![bearded iris bearded iris](https://triggplants.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Iris-unknown-no2-3-scaled.jpg)
If lack of rain persists, watering should be deep enough to penetrate the shallow root system. After planting, water well and continue watering until the first good rain. Over watering of Irises is a common mistake. The watering frequency will depend to a great extent on your environment. Once established, irises should be watered when the top three inches of soil dry out. Newly planted rhizomes need moisture so their root systems develop. Notice that each of the rhizome “toes” face inward towards each other about 8 inches apart as they are planted.
![bearded iris bearded iris](https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EGtWtrFW6VQ/UZpoLw31QlI/AAAAAAAAQNg/uwFC8cw9afQ/s1600/Windsor+Rose+Bearded+Iris.jpg)
The photo to the below shows iris being planted in groups of three. Close planting results in immediate effect, faster clump formation, and more color but makes dividing clumps a necessity in two to three years. Planting rhizomes 12 to 24 inches apart is the norm. Newly planted rhizomes should be watered thoroughly. Depending upon the maturity of the rhizome and the geographical location, there may or may not be blooms the first Spring.īuild up a small mound of soil in the center of the planting hole.Ĭenter the rhizome on the soil mound and spread out the roots on either side.įirm the soil around the roots. New growth may be noticeable within 2-3 weeks and begins with a new center leaf in the fan. Newly planted rhizomes should be watered thoroughly.īe Patient - Irises are perennials and require time to grow.
![bearded iris bearded iris](https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/bearded-iris.jpg)
Step (2) Center the rhizome on the soil mound and spread out the roots on either side. Step (1) Build up a small mound of soil in the center of the planting hole. It is a common mistake to plant Irises too deeply. Tamp the soil firmly to anchor the rhizomes until new roots begin to grow, and water well. However, in extremely hot climates or with very light soils, cover rhizomes with up to one inch of soil. Irises should be planted so the tops of the rhizomes are visible and the roots are spread out facing downwards in the soil. Plant your rhizomes at or just barely below the surface of the ground. Have your soil tested before making any correction. Lime may be added to acidic soils and sulfur may be added to alkaline soils. The ideal pH for irises is 6.8 (slightly acidic) but irises are quite tolerant of less-than-perfect soils. Gypsum is an excellent soil conditioner that can improve most clay soils. If you have heavy soil, adding humus – compost – or other organic material – will improve drainage. Good air circulation is essential and water should not stand in the beds.īearded irises will thrive in most well drained soils. A raised bed or planting on a slope are ideal places to plant iris. Iris will grow in deep shade, but probably not flower.
BEARDED IRIS FULL
Some afternoon shade is beneficial in extremely hot climates, but in general irises do best in full sun. Irises require at least a half-day (6-8 hours) of direct sunlight. Plant your iris at least four to six weeks before your first hard freeze or killing frost. It is important that the roots of newly planted irises be well established before the end of the growing season. This is also the best time (plants are normally dormant during the heat of July and August) to divide and replant iris that have become overcrowded, usually after three to five years. For best results, plant iris rhizomes in July, August or September.