Iris have always been one of my favorite flowers. I always wished they bloomed longer though, like all summer!
Although there are many different kinds of iris, the ones that often come to mind first, are the bearded iris. A sure sign of spring, iris are a welcome sight. And there are a multitude of colors available.Whether they're bearded or not, there's just so many to choose from. There are also miniatures, Japanese, and many more.
Iris are very hardy, but they do prefer a lot of sun, and well drained soil. It's not unusual for iris that have just been thrown on top of the ground, to take root, and start growing.
The underground stem, or rhizome, is what the iris grows from. When you want to thin down your beds, wait a month or two after they've bloomed, then dig the rhizomes. And while you're at it, cut back the tops about 2/3 of the way. Then plant the rhizomes in well worked soil, and place them so the tops are just below the soil surface. They don't have to be planted very deep. However, if you are transplanting beardless iris, it's best to do those in the early spring or fall. Thinning your iris beds every 2 or 3 years, not only helps encourage bigger blooms, but is also a good way to share with friends. Iris are one of the very easiest flowers to grow!
When driving along country backroads, it's not an uncommon sight to see the old fashioned purple iris blooming where old farm houses once stood. Many of the iris I have today, came from just such a place, and they're extra special to me since I spent many happy times there. I was thrilled when the current landowner gave me permission to "go help yourself" and get all I wanted. Not all landowners are that generous, but many are willing to let you get starts, particularly if you're courteous enough to ask.
So whether you buy from a garden center, catalogue, or get some from a friend, enjoy the beauty that iris bring to your garden.
Here are a couple of links that you might find helpful.
Some of the iris I have around my yard.
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