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Growing Bearded Irises: A Guide for Beginners
Introduction
Bearded irises are popular flowers that add a touch of beauty to any garden. They’re known for their sword-like foliage and showy blooms that come in a wide range of colors and shapes. Growing bearded irises is easy, but there are a few things you need to know to get started.
Planting Bearded Irises
- Choose a sunny spot with well-drained soil.
- Plant the rhizomes (the fleshy underground stems) just below the soil surface, with the growing tips facing up.
- Water the plants well after planting.
Care for Bearded Irises
- Water regularly, especially during hot, dry weather.
- Fertilize the plants in spring with a balanced fertilizer.
- Remove spent blooms to encourage reblooming.
- Trim the foliage back to about 6 inches in the fall.
Propagating Bearded Irises
- Divide the rhizomes every 3-4 years to create new plants.
- Dig up the rhizomes in the fall and cut them into sections, each with a fan of leaves.
- Replant the sections immediately.
Problem Solving
- Rhizome rot: Cut out and discard any affected areas.
- Iris leaf spot: Remove any infected leaves and avoid damaging the plants.
Great Bearded Iris Varieties
- Blackest iris: ‘Before the Storm’
- Lightly scented: ‘Bluebeard’s Ghost’
- Ruffled: ‘Bold Print’
- Inky blue: ‘Sable’
- Lilac: ‘Susan Bliss’
Conclusion
Growing bearded irises is a rewarding experience. By following these simple tips, you can enjoy these beautiful flowers in your garden for years to come.
