Iris On The Move - Tall Bearded Iris

Do you have a very sunny location, rather dry in the summer?
This is the ideal location for irises! In the shade, they grow but do not bloom. They are hardy and do not need winter protection. Well-drained soil is perfect, even dry, chalky, or rocky. Excessively wet soil promotes rhizome rot. Plant from July to September to give the rhizomes enough time to grow and develop new roots before winter. They should be planted immediately after purchase for best results. Plan to divide the irises every 4 years or so to give them fresh soil. They have vigorous growth and require space to develop and bloom well. Plant with a spacing appropriate to the size and vigour of the variety: about 34-50 cm (13-20in) for tall varieties. Always consider the direction of growth of the rootstocks by arranging them in a star shape, with the buds and leaves facing outward, and spacing them well away 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 rhizome and spreading roots. Cover the roots. It is important for the rhizome to be at the surface of the soil. It should not be planted in a dip (risk of rot), so take into account that the soil will settle and the iris will sink. In clayey or wet soil, the rhizome can even be elevated on a slight mound. To make the soil cling to the roots, lightly firm and water abundantly immediately after planting. Water 2-3 times if necessary until the plant starts to grow.

Maintenance:

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