Iris germanica Brides Blush - Bearded Iris

Do you have a very sunny location, rather dry in the summer?
This is the ideal location for planting Iris germanica! In the shade, they grow but do not flower. They can be grown in all regions. Hardy, they do not need winter protection. Well-drained soil is perfect, even if it is rather dry and chalky, or even stony. Soil that is too wet promotes rootstock rot. Plant from July to September. This allows the rootstocks to grow sufficiently before being dug up, and to develop new roots before winter. They should be planted as soon as they are purchased for best results. Plan to divide the iris every 4 years or so to give them fresh soil. They have vigorous growth and require space to develop and flower well. They are planted with spacing appropriate to the size and vigour of the variety: about 34-50cm (13-20in) for tall varieties (5 to 10 plants per square metre). Always consider the direction of growth of the rootstocks, arranging them in a star shape with buds and leaves facing outward, and spacing them well from other varieties so they have room to grow.

Planting:

Dig a hole that is wide and deep enough. Make a conical mound of soil on which to place the rootstock and spread out the roots. Cover the roots. It is important that the rootstock is level with the surface of the soil. It should not be planted in a depression (risk of rot). Take into account that the soil will settle and the iris will sink. In clayey or wet soil, the rootstock may even be raised on a slight mound of a few centimetres. To make the soil adhere to the roots, lightly compact the soil and thoroughly water immediately after planting. Water 2-3 times if necessary until the plant resumes growth.

Maintenance:

Keep the soil free of weeds by shallow hoeing, taking care not to damage the rootstocks or roots. Weeds create shade for the Iris, retain moisture (rot), and attract slugs. Similarly, remove dry leaves. If they are diseased (reddish-bordered spots of heterosporiosis), we recommend burning them. Remove faded flowers.