Iris Care - Good Thymes Gardens

Iris History

Named for the Greek Goddess of the Rainbow Iris, it is said that the colors of the blooms represent the multi-colored robes of the deity. While blues and pinks may predominate today, yellow was for centuries the most renowed of all iris hues thanks to Clovis I, (also known as Louis) King of the Franks from 481 until 511 A.D. Clovis credited a stand of yellow iris with helping him find a safe route across a river near what is now Cologne France, out of reach of his enemies the Goths. Thus began the long association with the nobility, subsequently appearing as "fleurs-de-lis "on the battle flag of France's Louis VII (reigned 1137 - 1180 A.D.) during the Crusades. The French Impressionist Claude Monet favored a pale blue and yellow Dutch variety called 'Wedgewood' and planted thousands of them at Giverny.

Anatomy and Habitat of the Iris

All Iris blossoms consist of three "Standards" (upright petals) and three "Falls" (drooping sepals located directly beneath the standards). Irises are divided into two categories: those grown from bulbs (English, Spanish and Dutch) and those raised from rhizomes (Bearded, Beardless American hybrid, Louisiana, Japanese and Siberian). All bulbous irises are beardless, while rhizomatous irises can be bearded or beardless. Native to America, Europe, and Asia the genus Iris, with more than 200 species, boasts a family tree complex enough to challange the most avid amateur horticulturist. Beloved by gardeners from Maine to Florida, the iris fares well in Zones 3 to 9.

When To Plant

The best time to plant iris is late summer through early fall. We recommend planting from August 1st until Mid-October depending on your location. Those in more southern climates can usually plant up to early November. Spring planting can be done if the plants have been potted and stablized for a significant period of time. However, spring planting of bare root rhizomes can result in a lack of bloom the first year.

How To Plant

Make a 3" deep depression about 6" in diameter with a small fist-sized mound in the center.The rhizome is place on top of the mound so that approximately 1/3 of the tuber will be above the soil. Spread the roots out over the mound to support the plant. Replace the soil taking care to pack the area firmly to remove any air pockets around the roots and water liberally (note: in areas of intense heat tubers may be completely covered with no more than 1" of soil) . Rhizomes should be placed from 12" to 18" apart to allow for new growth.

Where To Plant

For best results irises need to be planted where they will receive at least half a day of sun in neutral to slightly alkaline (pH of 6.8 - 7.0) well-drained soil. Raised beds will help with drainage and are a MUST for areas of heavy rainfall. Heavy clays will need to be amended with gypsum or coarse sand to aid drainage.