How big does Dietes bicolor get?
Plants grow to 4 or 5 feet tall in standing water, making it ideal for water gardens and wet soil. They reach about 3 feet in soil. Grows up to 3-4 ft. Easy to grow, this plant performs best in full sun or part shade, in moist, well-drained soils.
How do you care for Dietes bicolor?
Iris will bloom best on rich, moist soil but will tolerate moderately dry soil conditions, growing in nearly full sun to partial shade. Plants in the full sun appear to do best with frequent irrigation. Cold temperatures (below 25°F) cause leaf browning. These leaves can be removed in the spring to clean up the plant. What are common mistakes to avoid when cutting back irises? Avoid over-pruning your irises and don’t make the mistake of cutting them back too early in the season. If you cut back too much or too early, you are removing the leaves that provide energy to the iris and the plant may weaken.In dry-summer climates they’re highly resistant to disease. They’re able to push back and hold their own against aggressive weeds and groundcovers, without ever becoming invasive themselves, since a clump of irises only creeps outward by about 3-4 inches per year.Cut back irises after blooming and before winter to promote health and blooms. Removing unhealthy foliage helps prevent disease and pest problems. Divide irises every 3 to 5 years to avoid overcrowding and encourage flowering.For best results, Iris should be planted in July, August or September. It’s imperative that the roots of newly planted Iris be well-established before the growing season ends. In areas with hot summers and mild winters, September or October planting may be preferred.Ensure these plants receive a minimum of 6 hours of sunlight daily; check annually for any changes in their sun exposure. Irises need at least 6 hours of sun per day if they are to flower to their fullest potential, and you should evaluate their location every year to ensure this demand is met.
What is dietes bicolor used for?
Dietes bicolor forms a large spiky clump, ideal for use as an accent plant near ponds or at the sides of steps, pathways and entrances. Because the plant multiplies rapidly, it can be easily propagated for large-scale plantings. Its evergreen, spreading habit makes it suitable for use as a long-lasting ground cover. Tough, drought-tolerant, and super easy to grow, Dietes bicolor is the ultimate low-maintenance landscaping choice. It forms graceful, clumping, sword-like foliage that looks lush year-round, adding texture and movement to your garden.
How long does Dietes bicolor bloom?
In frost-free areas, plants bloom from spring to fall and intermittently throughout winter. Flowers last one day, but are quickly replaced. Its blooms seem to come at two-week intervals, hence the common name, fortnight lily. Each bloom lasts only one day but is quickly replaced by another one.