What is the most reliable iris?
Siberian Iris (Iris sibirica) Siberian irises are less susceptible to iris borer pests than other varieties, making them a low-maintenance choice for gardeners looking to add reliable color in late spring to early summer. Soil and Water Reblooming irises need fertile, slightly acidic, well-drained soil. If the soil in your garden is heavy, add coarse sand or humus to help with drainage. Water every other week to keep the soil moist and prevent the plants from going dormant.A raised bed or planting on a slope are ideal places to plant iris. Good air circulation is essential and water should not stand in the beds.Irises don’t like high-nitrogen fertilizers, because they encourage soft growth that is prone to rot. Use a balanced 10-10-10 or low-nitrogen 5-10-10 fertilizer, or a superphosphate. Apply lightly in the early spring and again about a month after blooming is done. Sprinkle it around the rhizome, not on top of it.Lessons learned are that even though regular Irises are rather drought tolerant, they do need some water in a dry fall and can be soaked for a couple of weeks in the spring. Warmer soil is very good. Use extra mulch and/or scoop extra snow on the area where bulbs are in the winter.
When to buy iris plants?
Iris should be bought and planted along with other fall “bulbs”, usually October and November. Iris clumps should be dug and divided in fall or winter. Iris go dormant in the winter. Iris do best in partial shade. Should Iris Bulbs be Soaked Before Planting? You don’t need to soak bulbs before planting. For irises grown from rhizomes, soaking may make the roots a little more pliable for planting.In areas with hot summers and mild winters, September or October planting may be preferred. We strongly suggest Iris be planted at least six weeks before the first hard frost in your area. Iris should be planted so the tops of the rhizomes are exposed and the roots are spread out facing downward in the soil.By planting iris bulbs or corms in the spring, you allow them to establish their root systems before the hot summer months. This early start gives them the best chance of producing robust foliage and stunning blooms.Irises are best planted in spring or summer, long before winter cold sets in. Don’t plant them too deep- their rhizomes should peek out above the soil and never be completely covered. Plant in full sun in well-draining soil. Some light afternoon shade is fine, also.
Is October too late to plant iris?
The later freezing occurs, the more types of vegetables you can still plant. For overwintering crops like garlic, October is often an ideal time for planting. If you live in the far north, or in areas where the ground freezes early for extended periods, reserve October planting for a heated greenhouse or hoop house. The Best Cool Season Root Crops to Grow in October The cool season has so many options for root crops: radishes, beets, carrots, fennel, turnips, rutabaga. These veggies all love cool weather and grow best when planted by seed directly in the soil.
Should I soak iris bulbs before planting?
Should Iris Bulbs be Soaked Before Planting? You don’t need to soak bulbs before planting, however, for irises grown from rhizomes, soaking may make the roots a little more pliable for planting. Irises don’t like high-nitrogen fertilizers, because they encourage soft growth that is prone to rot. Use a balanced 10-10-10 or low-nitrogen 5-10-10 fertilizer, or a superphosphate. Apply lightly in the early spring and again about a month after blooming is done. Sprinkle it around the rhizome, not on top of it.When dividing Siberian irises in early spring, dig up the entire clump when new growth has just begun to appear. Divide the clump into sections with a soil knife or spade. Each section should have several growing points and a good root system. Replant immediately.Whether you’re planting new rhizomes or dividing old clumps, early fall is prime time in Zone 5. Here’s how to get started (and what not to do). Timing is everything. Iris should be planted 6 weeks before your area’s first expected hard frost.If you are a lover of iris, forget about the weather as there is work to be done. Late July through mid August is the best time to plant, move or divide iris. Iris is one of the most popular perennials in the garden and easy to grow.Bearded irises are planted in the late summer or early fall. Soak the rhizomes and root in water for a few hours before planting. The hole should be 6 to 8-inches deep with a central mound and spaced about 18 inches apart.