I have been told that my husband’s Grandma Gertie always grew the most beautiful irises. I wish I could have met her, I’ve heard so many wonderful things about her. A few years ago, I bought two variegated iris that I have completely fell in love with. They have gold and green striped foliage and the most beautiful lavender blooms. They have grown and spread amazingly, I couldn’t be happier with them.
Irises like a sunny spot and well drained soil. Don’t over water or the rhizomes (roots) might rot. They need room to spread so plant them about 2 feet apart. Mulching is not recommended as it could cause too much moisture around the rhizomes and encourage rot. After your iris has bloomed, they will form a seed pod, it’s best to remove these so they don’t zap all the energy out to the rhizomes. I have never fertilized mine but you may want to consider a low nitrogen fertilizer once or twice a year, right after bloom and just after bloom. Be sure to prune back all the foliage in the fall. To avoid overcrowding, carefully divide them about every three years in the late summer. Carefully dig out clumps with a garden fork or spade, try not to break or cut the roots too much. Pull the clumps apart, cut them apart if necessary. Trim back the foliage to about 4″ to 6″ to help encourage new root growth. When replanting, fan the roots out so the have room to spread. Water them well right after planting, but not again until they are dry. Next spring you will have more beautiful blooms to enjoy!
The Iris symbolizes faith, wisdom, hope and valor.
You are my refuge and my shield; I have put my hope in your word. ~Psalm 119:114 (NIV)
