Iris Petit Moment - Bearded Iris

Do you have a sunny, warm location, dry in summer?
This is the ideal location for irises! In the shade, they grow but do not flower. They are hardy and do not need winter protection. Well-drained soil is perfect, even dry and chalky. Soil that is too wet 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 as soon as they are purchased for best results. Plan to divide irises approximately every 4 years to give them fresh soil. They are vigorous and need space to develop and flower well. Plant with a spacing appropriate to the size and vigour of the variety: about 34-50 cm (13-20in) for tall ones. In a monochrome planting, the rhizomes are planted in a staggered pattern. To create a mix of colours, plant them in groups of several plants of the same variety. Always take into account the direction of growth of the rhizomes by arranging them in a star shape, with 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 in the hole and place the rhizome on it, spreading out the roots. Cover the roots. The rootstock must be left slightly above the surface of the soil. It should not be planted in a dip (risk of rot), so anticipate that the soil will settle and the iris will sink. In clayey or damp soil, the rhizome can even be left raised on a slight mound. To make the soil cling to the roots, lightly firm and water abundantly after planting. Water 2-3 times if necessary until it takes root.

Maintenance:

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