Bearded Iris

68 Comments

1. leo mckiney - April 29, 2005 at 8:49 am

   I cannot find any information on deadheading my Iris. Do I just pluck out the old bloom or break it off at the stem or just leave it alone. I am not very knowledgabe about flowers so my jargon is lacking. There is a small swollen area below the bloom. If I deadhead, do I break the stem above or below this? Is there a time frame after the blooms die in which to do this? I hope you can understand what I am talking about. Thanks, Leo

   When the flower shrivels and dries up it can easily be snapped off below the swollen area. Take care not to break off any new flowers buds. When all blooms are spent, allow the stem to die back on its own.

   Reply
2. mindy - May 14, 2005 at 4:18 am

   Color Change

   My hybrid bearded iris is 13 years old; why is it now changing to lighter colors

   There are a few factors that can fade the colors on your iris. Increasing shade, a hot growing temperature and a nutrient deficiency in the soil. In warmer climates iris need some afternoon shade to keep flowers from fading. Also as some iris get older the flower color will fade.

   bill schlosser
   I have several starter plant of bearded iris. Several people said that if i plant them too close they will all fade and become one color. Is this true?

   Too close plantings can reduce flower production and you will need to divide them earlier. If you plant different colors close together the healthier plant color can take over. Flower will also fade from nutrient deficiences and the amount of sunlight available.

   I have bearded Iris that are quite big, some bloom, some don’t – then I have the regular beared Iris (I think) that usually blooms purple/blue color. However, this year they ALL bloomed white. Any reasons anyone can tell me.
   Thanks, Glenda

   If you plant different colors close together the healthier plant color can take over. Without knowing, you might have had a white iris among the purple/blue and it is blooming this year and perhaps taking over. Flower will also fade from nutrient deficiences and the amount of sunlight available.

   Reply
3. nancy stone - May 16, 2005 at 8:03 am

   what kind of soil do iris like…acid or alkaline?

   Iris will tolerate a wide range of soil types – sandy loam to heavy clay, as long as it is well-drained. They also prefer a neutral ph 7 but some varieties will tolerate ph 6-8.

   Reply
4. Cheryl Koranda - May 22, 2005 at 6:33 pm

   Iris thrips

   My Bearded Iris have flowers that are deformed and appear to be rotting. This occurrs side by side with beautiful healthy blooms. The plants appear healthy and do not appear to have any signs of iris boroer damage. What is cauisng this? I read it may be aphids but see no sign of them, are they
   hard to see?

   If you had aphids you would see them sucking on the leaves. There are several species of thrips that will infest an iris. Gladiolus and flower thrips can also infest the flower. They feed on the buds, stem tips, and flowers. Infested plants will have distorted blooms and petals. The leaves are flecked with white and tips can curl, wither and die. The insect burrows into the flower and leaf tissue making it difficult to control. If you have thrips, try repeated sprayings of insecticidal soap every 5-7 days until infestation is gone. Remove any infected flowers.

   My purple iris have not grown as tall and the blooms are misshapen. Some of the buds are not even openingl. I noticed very small greyish crawly insects as I pulled back the last leaf that the bud emerges from. I’m not sure what these are and would like to know how what to use to kill them before they spread to the neighboring yellow iris which is blooming beautifully.
   Elaine Slupe

   There are a number of insects that can affect Iris flower – thrips -(larvae are tiny white pests) expose the plant to a fungal infection causing stunted growth, distorted flowers. The bulb type of iris can also get bulb mites -leaves stunted/deformed and flowers disfuguired or none. Beetles, catepillars, slugs can chew the flowers and foliage. Try a systemic (Orthene) as a preventative treatment next spring

   Reply
5. Laura Peavy - May 23, 2005 at 4:32 pm

   When do you cut a iris plant back? Or do you?

   You can cut them back in the late summer after they are done blooming and the leaves turn yellow. Iris leaves are also cut back by 2/3 after you divide them.

   Reply
6. Judy - June 5, 2005 at 2:26 pm

   SEED PODS

   Bearded Iris- I have pods (I think that is what you would call them) that grow where the bloom was. Can these be planted to make more irises? Do I need to open and dry the seed inside? Help? I also get these on my daylilies and want to know what to do with them.

   The pods are full of seeds. Let them ripen and they will pop open. You can plant the seeds to make more plants. If they are hybrids you may not get the same plant as the parent. Do the same with the daylilies.

   I have bed full of old bearded Iris (a Deep Purple with white center), that were given to me by a friend. My Grandmother had beds around her entire house with nothing but iris all labled with their names. However, this particular Iris has something that I have never seen before. After blooming, hudge blooms and about six to one stalk (several that come from the same pod or at least appear to), it forms something that looks like a seed pod and is about the size of a small cucumber. What is this and should I just cut it off?
   Thanks, J. Kuettel

   It is a seed pod. You can leave it on and let it ripen,then plant the seeds or cut it off. By allowing the seeds to ripen the plant will devote more energy to produce seeds than flowers.

   Reply
7. Jone D. - June 7, 2005 at 1:17 pm

   Transplanting Iris

   I have MANY older Iris plants that need to be transplanted now to make way for a new driveway. What is the best procedure?

   Iris need to be divided and replanted every 3-5 yrs, the best time is in July or later after blooming. This will be your opportunity to rejuvenate your iris bed and perhaps share some extras with your friends. Dig up your rhizomes and cut away the new parts, discarding the old. Plant the rhizomes 18-24 inches apart pointing the fans of leaves away from each other.You can plant in a circular group. For quicker mass flowers, plant iris clumps in set of 3 closer together (8-10 inches). Cut the leaves to 1/3 of their full height. Mulch for the winter.

   Karen
   I divided last spring not the best time but did it….many plants do NOT have any flower blooms just the green, while others do? it doesn’t appear to be related to area planted, because some areas of replants have blooms, while some within same area do nOT…dissappointed but await with hope.

   Iris can take a year to adjust after being transplanted-so that’s why you’ll have some that may bloom and others not.

   Mary
   I just planted some bearded iris and some of the buds are drooping over. There are more buds coming but I am worried they are going to droop too. The leaves are green. Any advice?

   The best time to plant iris is in late summer or early fall so that they have time to establish a root system. A spring planting can put the iris in transplant shock as its roots have been compromised and that’s why the leaves are drooping. The roots can’t support the foliage. Best thing you can do at this time is keep it moist but not wet. It should recover with time.

   Gary ( jenni1@bellsouth.net / )
   Having dug up to separate plants, which did not bloom well this past season, how much of the rhizome must I cut off? Do you cut it with a knife or snap it off in your hands?

   Cut the rhizomes with a sharp knife with each section having at least one growing point (or a fan of leaves)about 3-4 inches and some developed roots. Trim the fans down to 1/3 of their full height.

   Reply
8. Jo Norris - June 30, 2005 at 6:30 am

   Not blooming
   My iris did not bloom this year and I would like to cut them back now. Will that be ok? Also can I put mulch on them?

   There are several reason why your iris may not have bloomed – one is that they may be too crowded and need division and late summer is a good time to do this. When dividing cut the foliage back to 1/3 of the leaf. If you just want to cut them back, do it in the fall when the leaves start to yellow and brown, green leaves put back nutrition and energy into the tuber for next years growth. You can mulch them for winter protection only.

   penny prouty
   why have my iris never bloomed. the leaves have come up and been up for 18 months, no blooms!?

   Some causes for no blooms are a too shady location, they were planted too deep or over fertilized which will produce too many leaves no flowers.

   Reply
9. Kris - July 8, 2005 at 9:07 am

   IRIS LEAF SPOT DISEASE

   I had to replant my bearded iris’s last July, I used bulb food before replanting. This spring the leaves are brown on ends and have brown spots on the whole leaf. What did/am I doing wrong?

   Sounds like you might have Iris leaf spot caused by a fungus Didymellina macrospora. Usually starts with small, water soaked spots that grow to 1/2 inch long spots with brownish purple center and yellow margins. The fungus winters over on infected leaves and spreads to healthy leaves via splashing water. To help control this remove infected leaves in the fall and if you have a severe infection spray with a fungicide. Use according to label directions.

   Reply
10. Gary V. Horton - July 15, 2005 at 5:18 am

    IRIS BORER

    My iris bloomed beautifully this year. while weeding the bed I notices some leave brown all the way down and mushy. Also the tip on some are turning brown. There are no “spots” as noted in the notes above, but turning dried brown sometimes 2 inches to 4-5 inches down. What is it and what should I do? Thank you

    Check the tubers for pinholes caused by iris borer which also bring along a bacterial rot-hence the mushy leaves and probably parts of the tuber. If it is iris borer remove any infected tubers. Check the above question from Lisa as to how to treat it and prevent it next year.

    RITA ANDERSON
    WHY ARE MY IRISES TURNING ALL BROWN AND DRYED UP LOOKING? WHAT CAN I DO FOR THEM?

    It is possible that you have iris borer. Check the tubers, see if there are some soft spots and mushy areas.

    Reply
11. Susan Goodwin - September 24, 2005 at 4:44 am

    STORING IRIS IN WINTER

    We are moving in the middle of winter. I would like to take some favorite iris with me. If I dig them up before frost, what can I do to keep the plants healthy until the spring when I can replant them. I live in the northeast mountains where spring comes late.

    Dig up your iris, cut back the fans to 3-4 inches and store them in a ventilated container with some peat moss. Keep the box in a cool location such as a basement/crawl space. Occasionally check on the rhizomes to see if they are rotting or shriveling. Toss out any rotting tubers and if shriveling add a touch of water to the peat to hydrate the rhizome and keep it firm.

    How do I store Bearded Iris Rhizomes over the winter in updtate NY?

    Bearded iris are hardy in your area and can stay in the ground over the winter but if you need to store them indoors for some reason here’s what you do. Dig up your iris, cut back the fans to 3-4 inches and store them in a ventilated container with some peat moss. Keep the box in a cool location(40-50 degrees) such as a basement/crawl space. Occasionally check on the rhizomes to see if they are rotting or shriveling. Toss out any rotting tubers and if shriveling add a touch of water to the peat to hydrate the rhizome and keep it firm.

    Shannon ( shannonchau@hotmail.com / )
    My friend gave me some beared iris in early May. The ground isn’t ready to plant them until next fall, so they are in flower pots now. I live in Minnesota. Pls advise what should I do to them during winter to make sure they will come back next spring. Should I just leave the iris in the pots and store them in the basement and not water them during winter?

    If you can plant them this fall-do so as that is a good time to transplant iris. If you need to store them during the winter – keep them in the pots(as long as the soil is well-drained and light) in a cool location such as a basement/crawl space. Occasionally check on the rhizomes to see if they are rotting or shriveling. Toss out any rotting tubers and if shriveling add a touch of water to hydrate the rhizome. Storing them in a ventilated container in peat moss is the preferred way.

    Reply
12. verlie - October 21, 2005 at 2:59 pm

    I have found that some of my iris product short stunted deformed flowerheads that barely rise above the tuber, other iris in the same bed flower fine. What could be causing this problem? Thanks.

    It’s possible the either insect or mechanical injury caused damage to the growing point on the iris resulting in distorted growth.

    Reply
13. Debra Grover - June 9, 2006 at 7:27 am

    GROWING IRIS FROM SEED

    Where, when, and how deep do I need to plant the ripened iris seeds?

    Growing iris from seeds can be a complex and long process. Plant the seeds in Oct in a peaty seed compost. Cover seed with a 1/4 inch of compost, water and place container outside by a north wall or cold frame for the winter (stratification). They need cold temperatures or refrigertation for 12-14 weeks. Keep compost moist but not wet and protect against mice. In the spring bring your pot indoors/greenhouse. Warm temperatures should trigger germination. If that doesn’t happen keep pot cool & moist through the summer. Seeds will germinate around 60-70 degrees F. and may take 30-545 days. Once germination takes place transplant each seedling into a separate container. For more info go to Backyardgardener.com, Thompson and Morgan.com also have a seed guide that might be of help to you.

    Reply
14. Kris - September 10, 2006 at 9:41 pm

    MULCHING IRIS

    I live in central Iowa and in late September I planted iris bulbs and mulched them. We’ve had a pretty mild fall and I noted that my bulbs have sprouted through. Is there something that I need to do to protect them through the winter?

    It is recommended that mulching should be done after the ground freezes. Put 4-6 inches of a light mulch such as oak leaves, straw, pine needles or evergreen boughs. Even if your iris are sprouting wait till the ground is frozen to add additional mulch. The purpose of mulching is to keep the group steadily frozen thru the winter so there is no thawing and refreezing. Kris

    Allison
    do i need to do anything to my iris’ to keep them safe over winter? Do i need to cut back the foliage at all? Some are single bloom while others are reblooming iris’

    Cut the leaves back 6-8 inches above the soil line and mulch with straw or evergreen branches after the first frost to keep the roots from freezing . Mulching especially in Northern states will also control the freezing/thawing cycle during the winter which can heave the plant above the soil and cause damage.

    Reply
15. Pam Borden - September 23, 2006 at 12:15 pm

    DROOPING/FALLING OVER IRIS

    My bearded iris blooms well in the spring and has healthy leaves. My only problem is that the stems require support stakes or they fall over. That’s a lot of work and I have not noticed anyone else having to stake irises. Please help!

    It’s possible that your iris has longer leaves because of the amount of light. Perhaps yours get more shade and moisture than your neighbors.

    Sheryl ( Rloveless@NYCAP.RR.com / )
    I planted two bearded iris bulbs two years ago. They came up beautifully each year, except this year they are all drooping to the point that they are actually laying down on the ground. They have plenty of sun, and I water them regularly. What would cause this, and how do I fix it? They are to lovely to lay on the ground. Thank you so much.

    Is it possible that you have had a lot of rain? Did you fertilize them this spring? Too much of both can cause the leaves to grow taller than normal. You can stake them to keep the flowers off the ground.

    Reply
16. Cela H - July 17, 2007 at 3:53 pm

    FERTILIZING IRIS
    My front yard is full of iris, these plants have been for many years. Is there anything I can feed them to get a healthy bloom. Thanks

    If your iris have been in the same spot for more than 3-5 years, chances are they need to be divided because they are overcrowded. The best time to do this is on a cloudy day, after they finish blooming. If the leaves are growing healthy and green, they may not need fertilizer. The recommended fertilizer rate(by U. Ext.) is a 1/2 cup of 5-10-10 for 6 small plants or 1 cup for a large iris clump, or 1/2 lb. of 5-10-10 per sq. ft applied after blooming . Also, try a light (1/2 dose) application in early spring 5-10-10. Apply the fertilizer around the base of the plant and avoid high Nitorgen (first#) fertilizers.

    I have dug up , separated and trimmed my iris. Is there a special plant food or other chemical I should prepare the soil with before replanting?

    If you have poor soil add a commercial fertilizer such as 5-10-5 (about 1/2 cup for every 6-7 rhizomes) and mix it well into the soil so that it has no contact with the rhizomes . Another option is to spade in compost, well-rooted manure to improve the soil structure and add some nutrien

    Reply
17. Nita - August 11, 2007 at 4:48 pm

    APHIDS ON IRIS

    I have a scale or aphid like infestation on my Iris leaves. It is some kind of bug. I rubbed it off on leaf and looked like aphids, but doesn’t look like any aphid I have seen. Any help to get rid of this or what it is would be appreciated.

    Aphids do attack iris. These tiny pear shaped or rounded insects come in a number of colors, usually appear in the spring, causing curled and distorted leaves. To treat for aphids spray the plant with insecticidal soap every 3-5 days for two weeks. A stronger alternative is Pyrethrum with alcohol. According to Rodale’s “Flower Garden Problem Sover”-Add 1 tablespoon alcohol to 1 pint of pyrethrum mix. The mixture should contact the aphids to be effective. Be sure they are aphids before spraying, this treatment will do little for scale.

    charisse
    I started a iris garden about a year ago. Now I noticed that I have these little white bugs on my plants. They crawl around like spiders. They seem to be mostly in the “Y†part of the plant where leaves or stalks for the flowers come off? Can you tell me how to treat these bugs? Will they infest my entire bed?

    Hi Charisse
    I’m not sure which bug you have on your iris. It may be aphids .

    Reply
18. Sara Corey - August 12, 2007 at 12:30 pm

    DIVIDING IRIS

    We bought our home in Spring of 2006. The previous owners had made a beautiful hybrid bearded Iris bed in the shape of an island on one side of the driveway which faces west. The blooms were just terrific that year and this year. The blooms lasted about a month or so, then were all done blooming. I have noticed that the bulbs seem to be mostly above the ground and very, very close together. What do I do with them now(mid August,2007). I have been cutting the leaves off at the ground level, but I have read that I should not be doing this. I think most of the bulbs have been there for at least 10+ years. I have no idea on how to “divide” them. Do I throw away bulbs that I don’t want? I truly need your help in this matter. Thanks. S. Corey, Chicago suburb

    Hi Sarah
    Now is a good time to divide your iris, especially if they are crowded. Dig under a clump of rhizomes and lift out the whole clump. Wash away the soil and inspect them for any pinholes or soft spots-discard those. Cut each rhizome with a sharp knife making sure each division has at least a fan of leaves and roots (about 3-4″). Before replanting, cut back the leaves to 1/3 of their full height and replant them the same way they were planted. Spread the roots facing downward into the soil and cover with soil , then press firmly in place making sure your rhizome is at soil level or slightly above. Water in thoroughly. Plant a least 3 rhizomes in a triangle or an alternating row pattern; pointing the fan of leaves away from each other. Plant 18-24 inches apart. Closer planting (10-12″) will fill in quicker but will have to be divided more often. Give or exchange the extra bulbs with your friends or neighbors to enjoy.

    Reply
19. julie bassard - October 22, 2007 at 6:39 am

    we moved into our new home last sept and there is a large circle of really small iris but only a few of them came up, how do i make them fill in? thanks

    There are several types of irises; those that grow from rhizomes and others that grow from bulbs. I suspect the small iris are from bulbs. They need full sun and well drained soil rich in organic matter. If the flower bed is declining and failing to bloom, it may be due to the foliage being cut down or dieing too early. Iris need the foliage to die back naturally so that it can replenish the nutrients back to the bulb for next seasons growth. They also need to be dry during the summer, wet soil will rot the bulb. Insects and diseases can also be a cause for the declining bed. You may have to dig up and see what’s happening to the bulbs.

    Reply
20. Jillian - April 23, 2008 at 12:14 pm

    I would like to know what the gestation period is for Iris bulbs? I planted 6 Iris bulbs, outdoors, in a large pot, back in late October. It’s now the end of April and I haven’t seen any signs of growth. I’ve followed all of the planting instructions and make sure that they get plenty of sunlight and water. Could you tell me when I should see the first signs and if you think there is a possibility they’ll bloom this year?

    Iris should be planted in late summer or early autumn to give them enough time to establish a root system before winter. If you live in a colder region, the roots should also be mulched to protect them from the freezing and thawing cycle during the winter months which will harm the roots especially in a container. At this point you will need to wait and see if the transplanted iris have survived. Iris can take a year to adjust after transplanting so they most likely will not bloom this year.

    Reply
21. Anna Di Vietri - April 29, 2008 at 11:14 am

    I have 2 iris beds growing, they are 3 years old, very healthy, one side has buds. Tonight we have a frost coming ,in I live I think in zone 5 or 6, upstate New york, Orange County. Should I cover them and if so with what?

    Hi Anna
    Cover the tender new growth with a blanket or sheet, avoid plastic as that traps the cold air.

    Reply
22. Ray - May 14, 2008 at 1:08 pm

    I have many Iris beds around my house. All the plants have flowers but the leaves are yellow or are turning yellow. We do have drip irriagtion in all beds. No bugs have been seen. What is causing the leaves to yellow?

    Hi Ray,
    Several factors can cause yellowing leaves. Iris need well drained soil, if your drip irrigation systems is keeping them too wet, it can lead to fungal or bacterial rot from too wet soil. The stressed out weakend plant can also become susceptible to iris borer which can destroy the plant. In all three cases you will have to remove the plant and if severely infected, burn or destroy the plants and move any healthy rhizomes to another area. Wait till after blooming to asses the problem, as late summer is a good time to redo your iris bed.

    Reply
23. Susan Zayhowski - June 22, 2008 at 1:53 pm

    Is it ok to mulch around Iris?

    Hi Susan
    It is better not to mulch during the growing season, it gives insects such as iris borer a place to hide their eggs. If you want to mulch around the plant for aesthetic reasons, then make sure that you don’t cover the rhizome. In cooler climates, mulching is recommended for first season plants after the ground freezes. During the winter the freeze and thaw cycle can heave the rhizome out of the soil. The insulating value of mulches such as evergreen boughs, straw or pine needles, will help temper the freeze/thaw cycle and avoid this problem. Remove it in the spring.

    Reply
24. Jana Lawrence - July 24, 2008 at 9:12 am

    I am in the process of dividing several patches of iris; however, some of the patches had been mixed in color, and I would prefer to put them back in clumps of the same color. Is there any way to tell from the leaves what the color the bloom will be? In this particular case, the iris are, if I remember correctly, entirely white, white w/purple falls or entirely purple. Some of the leaves are a reddish-purple at the bottom, just above the rhizome, so is that indicative of a purple bloom?

    Hi Jana
    I asked an iris expert and they informed me that there is no way of telling which color the bloom will be by the leaves or rhizomes. I guess you will have to mark each one after bloom.

    Reply
25. Wendy - September 19, 2008 at 8:36 am

    Hi there. I have read the bearded iris posts and don’t see my question, which is pretty specific: It is now mid September here in coastal SE Connecticut. I am planning to move to the Dallas area in a couple of months. At present, I am waiting for my iris to yellow before digging them up. When is the right time for me to replant them down in Texas? I will be shipping them with everything else so won’t have immediate access (or time!) for them. Thank you.

    Hi Wendy
    You can store your iris until you are ready to plant them in the spring. If the soil is workable and not frozen plant them and cover them with 3″ of mulch.
    Dig up yourbearded iris, cut back the fans to 3-4 inches and clean the rhizomes. Once dried, store them in cool (45-50F) area(basement) in a ventilated container with some slightly moistened peat moss, vermiculte, sawdust or shredded newspaper. Occasionally, check on the rhizomes to see if they are rotting or shriveling. Toss out any rotting tubers and if shriveling add a touch of water to the peat to hydrate the rhizome and keep it firm.

    Reply
26. Cathy Marshall - October 17, 2008 at 9:42 am

    STORING IRIS IN WINTER

    I was given some iris, and it took me longer to get the area that I was working on ready it is now mid Oct and I live in Maquoketa, Iowa. Can I put them in the ground or do I need to store them for the winter. I was given some really beautiful colors and really want to put them in the ground!

    Hi Cathy
    It’s a little late, plant the iris immediately into the ground. They need time to establish a root system before freezing weather sets in. Be sure they get enough moisture and after the soil freezes add 3-4 inches of mulch (straw, pine needles, evergreens) to protect the roots from heaving and freezing temperatures. If you don’t want to risk it-store your iris in peat in a cool, dark place @ about 35F (refrigerator or unheated garage) for the winter. Make sure that they don’t dry or shrivel during this time.

    Reply
27. Roger Schutt - December 30, 2008 at 3:10 pm

    We live in Northern California, elevation just under 3,000 feet. Because our Irises didn’t flower much this past spring, the second week of December we dug ’em up and placed in buckets. That was about 3 weeks ago. Now what?? Can I re-plant now in December (we recently had… and may still get… a bit of snow)?? If NO to re-planting now, how do we keep the rhizomes healthy in the meantime?? And WHEN should we re-plant?? Thanks!!

    Hi Roger,
    The best time to transplant iris in No. Ca. is in mid July-mid Sept. after bloom. This gives them time to establish a good root system before winter. If temperatures aren’t too cold (freezing) and the soil can be easily worked, plant your iris in the ground. Keep the tubers moist -not wet and add a 1-2″ f mulch on top to maintain even moisture and temperature for root development.
    If you can’t plant them at this time, store your iris in a ventilated container with some moistened peat moss. Keep the box in a cool location such as a basement/crawl space. Occasionally check on the rhizomes to see if they are rotting or shriveling. Toss out any rotting tubers and if shriveling add a touch of water to the peat to hydrate the rhizome and keep it firm. The roots should not be allowed to dry out. When the weather warms up in the 40’s (no freeze) plant the tubers in the ground. The sooner you plant them in the ground the better. The iris, most likely, will not bloom this year as they will spend the growing season establishing a root system but don’t be surprised if you get a bloom.

    Reply
28. Faith Scheerle - January 6, 2009 at 10:07 am

    I was given some 20 yr old iris bulbs, after winter set in. I put them in pots and put them in a cool place. They are coming up-what should I do to them now?

    Hi Faith
    Is there a cooler spot without light that you can keep your iris until you can plant them outdoors? Warmer temperatures and moisture will encourage them to continue growing. How far along are the plants? If you have 3 inch starts then you can still try to keep them at bay in a cooler environment.

    Reply
29. Chad - April 13, 2009 at 2:17 pm

    I have transplanted my iris from a shady location to a sunny one. I transplanted them in the spring which i’m told mas not the right choice. the leaves are above ground and are now drooping. Is there anything I can do to save them? also i may have put to many in the bed thus overcrowing them. Should I transplant again in late summer? I live in zone 7/8. Please help I love irises and would hate to think i was the cause of the demise of my irises.

    Hi Chad
    If they survive transplant them after they are done blooming in late summer (chances are they won’t bloom this year). Make sure they get enough moisture during the hot season. When you transplant them in summer/fall they will have time to re-establish a good root system during the cool winter months.

    See comments on Transplanting iris on 6/7/2005 Jone D.

    Reply
30. Maggie - April 27, 2009 at 7:48 am

    I was wanting to know if it would be ok to plant bearded Iris around the deck of my above ground pool? My concern is that the clorine in the water may kill them! Any Advice would be gratefuly appreciated.

    Hi Maggie
    According to Clemson U. Normal use of splashed pool water generally has no effect on nearby plants.

    Reply
31. michelle - May 17, 2009 at 12:02 pm

    Powdery mildew
    I have lots of iris’s and right now they have white spots that look like powder on the the leaves. Some type of fungus im sure. Could you tell what causes this and how to take care of it.

    It sounds like powdery mildew on the leaves. They may need more air ciculation.

    Reply
32. michelle - May 18, 2009 at 8:27 am

    One more question….I recieved a shipment of iris’s friday and my husband is the person that does all the planting and he planted the new iris’s that came in is that a no no?

    Hi Michelle
    It’s fine to plant iris in spring. You may or may not get flowers this year.

    Reply
33. Mesha Davis - May 28, 2009 at 9:52 pm

    I have several varieties of beautiful bearded iris in the large rock garden at the entrance to our property. There are numerous other flowering perennials and small shrubs in the garden also. As the irises grow (2 yrs. now) they are very showy in spring, and some are twice blooming in fall, but their foliage is taking up a lot of space! Should I remove all of them to another location, or let them stay mixed with other plants? I have never grown irises before, and am not sure of their favorite growing habit. Also, can I cut some of the foliage back without sacrificing next year’s bloom?
    I don’t currently have another location that is cultivated for them, but want to do the best thing long-term for all the plants.
    Thanks so much!

    Hi Mesha
    Because the rhizome are on the surface of the soil, iris are usually grown in their “own” area but can be mixed with other plants. Iris will usually need division after 3 years of growth. If yours are crowded and need to be separated wait till after they are done blooming before doing anything. In July/Aug you can dig up the rhizomes and separate them. It’s not a good idea to cut off the foliage as the foliage is what replenishes the rhizomes for next year’s bloom. Iris like well drained soil and full to part shade.

    Reply
34. Patrice - June 25, 2009 at 4:51 pm

    I planted Iris 2 years ago in the summer I think I planted them to deep as they come up nicely but they never bloom.When and how do I fix this problem,

    Hi Patrice
    In late summer (Mid-July-Sept) dig up the tuber and replant it. Plant the rhizome tops right at the soil level and point the growing tips outward of the circle or triangle, 12 to 24 inches apart. Cut the leaves to 1/3 of their full height.
    Other factors that may cause your iris not to bloom is not enough sun and excess fertilizer. Make sure that they are in a sunny location. The more shade the less flowers. If they are getting too much fertilizer especially Nitrogen, it will cause lots of leaf growth at the expense of flowers.

    Reply
35. Al - June 26, 2009 at 10:31 am

    can I send you a picture of my problem–based on the comments I have read concern browning and yellowing leaves–it sounds like I have borers, eye spot, over crowding–in effect the works — the iris bed is well over 5 years old and the blooms were beautiful this year as usual– however, with all the rain we have been having many of the leaves are turning brown, starting at the tips and eventually distroyng the whole leaf–looks like a dried tobacco leaf-brown and wrinkled. Any and all suggestions will be welcomed–including starting from scratch — interested in which chemicals, when to do what-etc.

    Hi Al
    It sounds like your iris bed needs rejuventation. Time to start a new iris bed. Iris need to be thinned and separated every 3-5 years. A crowded bed will reduce blooming as well as invite diseases. When digging up your tubers, carefully check for soft, soggy spots(bacterial sof t rot). Remove and destroy. You can rebuild your bed right after they are finished blooming.

    Reply
36. Vivian Catt - June 28, 2009 at 5:32 pm

    Seed pods
    What are the pods that grow on the end of the flower stalk?

    Hi Vivian
    The pods are seed pods which will mature, turn brown and have seed enclosed inside.

    Reply
37. Diana Dickerson - July 21, 2009 at 4:58 am

    I have problems with grass and weeds growing in my iris beds. Can I spray with roundup or weed spray without hurting my iris blades?

    Hi Diana
    Roundup and weed spray will kill everything that it comes in contact with.

    Reply
38. Elaine - July 23, 2009 at 10:39 am

    Yellow Leaves. Around July 12, I planted a bearded iris plant that had green leaves. It is now July 23, and some of the leaves are yellow, and they are looking very droopy. We have had a lot of rain recently. Question 1: Is there something I should do to help the plant? Question 2: When you plant in July, do you have to wait until the next year to get blooms?

    Hi Elaine
    The best time to transplant iris is now (Aug/Sept) after bloom. You will not get flowers this year. You may or may not get blooms next year. It depends on howwell they grow during the season and if the a rebloomers (bloom 2x a season).

    Reply
39. Nelda Sanchez - September 29, 2009 at 10:01 am

    Not blooming
    What would make an entire stand of iris NOT bloom for two years in a row? Plants have been pruned and watered as required.

    Hi Nelda
    Some of the reason that iris will not bloom are; too much shade, they were planted too deep, over fertilized which will produce too many leaves no flowers, too crowded and need division. If your iris bed is 4-5 years old, it may need to be divided. In addition, check for disease causing insects (iris borer).

    Reply
40. RedSunflowers - March 29, 2010 at 8:26 am

    I super clay soil here in the Northeast Georgia area. I have been an Iris fanatic since my early gardening years. I have learned many tips and tricks to keep your flowers beautiful all season long.

    1. Even though the packaging says “full sun” you may want to plant these is areas where they will get the bulk of the day’s sun, but also have some shade.

    2. Use your coffee grounds / tea leaves as food for your Iris’. Mine LOVE it! I get blooms the size of salad plates when I remember to do all the beds. (You can get both at your local Starbucks or coffee house, call first).

    3. Over crowded beds make great cash in Spring! Remove your eyes, thin out the bed and set aside. Re-mulch your bed and add new topsoil so all Rhizomes are covered. Make sure you separate out each one and put them in a bag that is well marked.

    4. Take the thinned out iris’ and check them over, look for worm holes, bug infestations etc. The white film /powder on the leaves is most likely Mildew, no worries, wash them off before you put them aside for winter.

    5. Go to your local farm and feed store, buy a small bag of sulfur. When you have washed your iris’ and set them to dry a couple of days on a paper towel or newspaper, you’ll be ready to dust and store.

    6. Use an old flour sifter for this job! Wear a face mask & protective eye wear too.
    Use newspaper as the catch for the sulfur dust. When you’re coating these Rhizomes, make sure you give them a general to moderate coating, depending on the size of the Rhizomes.

    7. Store in a cool dry place. If it freezes where you live, keep them inside in the laundry room. If you don’t get a super cold winter, store them for 3 months in the fridge in the garage if you have one. If not, seal the Rhizomes in a plastic bag, place on bottom shelf of fridge and forget about them.

    (Are you like me & save your flower pots from the nurseries? Step 8 is for you!)

    8. At the first sign of spring, fill your reserved nursery flower pots with good soil, mix up some root out and be ready to go. Rinse and dry your sulfur Rhizomes. If you want to you can let them dry out for a few hours, then plant in the pots.

    9. Water with a little miracle grow – 1/8th of a teaspoon in a 1 gallon jug. You don’t want to shock them, but let them gently know there is food available.

    10. Label and Tag the pots from the information on the bag you have from early fall.

    11. Take your pots to the local Farmer’s Market. You can get anywhere from $4.50 an eye to $139.00 an eye, depending on the color, age and size.

    eye = is the same as Rhizomes.
    Traditionally called “flags” in Eastern Ky.
    The French used the Iris for the Fleur-DE-Elise” Symbol!

    Gotta love Iris’!

    Reply
41. Janice - May 12, 2010 at 7:01 am

    Thank you for this site and info. I am a new gardner and have a iris that hasn’t bloomed? I now have the info that may just give me blooms. Thanks I will let you know if I get blooms.

    Reply
42. Penny - June 8, 2010 at 1:45 am

    Tall iris stems
    Hi, I am new to the game of managing iris, and we are having a very, very wet June to this point. Many of the flower stalks are lying down after it rains. I go out and shake them off and then remove any dead blooms, and as my final act of gardening for the afternoon I work to stake or stand them back up. I don’t remember them being this tall last year, or their falling over. My husband admitted to putting miracle grow on them and the lilies and now the plants are out of proportion for where they were planted.
    Please advise…..I will be hiding the miracle grow from hubby…..and I am hoping to not have to buy little umbrellas for the Iris so they can survive some healthy Seattle spring rain.

    Hi Penny
    Lots of rain, cloudy days and warm temperatures will cause the stems to elongate and grow taller than usual. Giving the stems some type of support will help keep them off the ground. Another alternative is to cut some blooming stems and enough them indoors.

    Reply
43. AJ Scott - June 8, 2010 at 6:50 pm

    Hi Penny –

    I am hoping to not have to buy little umbrellas for the Iris so they can survive some healthy Seattle spring rain.

    *** When I lived in La Conner, WA we had similar issues. I used to break the stems off (for lack of a cutting tool) and take them inside to bloom out. The miracle grow is a good “flavor” for the eyes, as they need a good food to help them maintain themselves in the wetter climate.

    I have found planting the ever present Alderwood trees near the iris’s helps protect them from the downpours we get and the tent worms go to the trees and not the bulbs!

    There is an iris society there in Seattle, they meet every June. Check with the Chamber to see when they connect this year.

    Reply
44. Mari - September 26, 2010 at 10:08 am

    Iris stem falling over
    I planted several bearded irises a couple of years ago. This past summer was the first time they bloomed and they were beautiful! The only issue I noticed was the stalk each bloom was on would be so weighted down by the bloom, the stalk would eventually be laying on the ground. Is this because I may not have planted them deep enough? Or is there something else that would make this happen?

    Hi Mari
    I had that same problem this year. It has nothing to do with how deep they are planted. Some iris naturally produce tall stalks and favorable growing conditions such as warm, rainy days and plenty of nutrients can cause the plant to grow even better than expected. They produce larger flowers on tall stems that aren’t strong enough, (esp. when the flower is wet which adds more weight). The best thing you can do in this case is to stake the stem. Lower light conditions can also contribute to elongated stalks leaning toward more sun.

    Reply
45. Julie - October 10, 2010 at 10:27 am

    I live in zone 6 (Southwest Missouri). Can I transplant my bearded irises now or is it really too late.

    Hi Julie
    You can still transplant them. it’s not too late where you live.

    Reply
46. Pat - March 16, 2011 at 4:24 pm

    Color change and no bloom
    I have a patch of mixed colored bearded iris. The first year they bloomed fine, the secound year they all bloomed white. Last year they didn;t bloom at all. The plant itself looks fine, no insects that I could see. Is there anything I can do to help them to bloom??

    Hi Pat
    What could have happened is the “other” colors died and the white iris remained. If you planted different colors close together the healthier plant color can take over. Flower color will also fade from nutrient deficiences and increasing shade.

    Some causes for iris not blooming are: 1. too shady location 2. planted too deep 3. over fertilization which will produce too many leaves no flowers. Since your’s bloomed and there is no signs of insect, I suspect 1 or 3.

    Reply
47. Heidi - April 9, 2011 at 11:47 am

    Aphids on Iris
    Hi! I live in NM & have a ton of iris flowers & would like to share the blooms now (eyes later). The problem is that there are aphids camped out in the junctures where they flowers meet the stems. These are double blooms & I can’t just spray the buggers off – even though I’ve tried w/ the kitchen hand-held. We also have young children & pets so are concerned about the safety of treatments. The plants are in very sunny spot: south facing against cinderblock, and receive embarrassingly little water. They were fine when I divided them a couple of years ago. Stems & flowers look great & are large despite benign neglect.

    Hi Heidi
    Go to http://hortchat.com/info/aphids for other ideas on treating aphids.

    Reply
48. william - April 14, 2011 at 11:16 am

    grow Iris in desert
    I LIVE IN PALM SPRINGS, CA–THE DESERT WHERE IT GETS VERY HOT IN THE SUMMER MONTHS. I SUCCESSFULLY GREW IRISES HERE 2 YRS AGO, BUT THEY DID NOT BLOOM THE SECOND YR–WE NEVER GET FREEZING TEMPERATURES IN THE WINTER MOS. THE PLANTS STAYED BEAUTIFUL ALL YEAR–THEY WERE IN A LARGE POT. HAVE 2 QUESTIONS: 1-SHOULD I PUT RHIZOMES?
    ) IN FRIDGE OR FREEZER FOR A TIME IN THE WINTER MOS. AND 2-SOME EXPERTS SAY TO CUT OFF STEM AFTER ALL FLOWERS ON IT HAVE BLOOMED, AND OTHERS SAY TO LET IT DIE NORMALLY…WHICH IS THE BEST FOR HERE IN THE DESERT? THANK YOU

    Hi William
    Iris can be grown in the desert and it may be possible that they did not bloom for other reasons than warm temperatures. They do like a cool period during the winter months. If you over water them, they will bloom less. Some causes for no blooms are a too shady location, too crowded and need to be divided (every 2-3 years) or disease. Planting too deep or over fertilizing will also elliminate flowers. I cut the stem off when it starts to turn brown.

    Reply
49. Melissa - May 6, 2011 at 1:02 pm

    Hi,
    I’m new to gardening and wanted to know if my iris bulbs are supposed to have (it’s hard to explain) these straw or hay looking things at the top. I went online and tried to get the best instructions on planting them, so I basically dug about 4-5 inches and covered it with soil but left the straw/hay looking things sticking out of the soil.

    Please help me out and let me know if I planted them right.

    Hi Melissa
    I think when you refer to the straw/hay looking things-you may be referring to the dried roots or it may be the fans (leftover leaf parts).
    If so here’s how to plant your iris tubers.
    Plant in a area that gets 6 hrs of sun for best bloom. Dig up the soil and make a little mount in center of hole. Spread the roots facing downward over the mound and cover with soil , then press firmly in place making sure 1/3 – 1/2 of the rhizome is above the soil level. Water in thoroughly. Plant a least 3 rhizomes in a triangle or an alternating row pattern; pointing the fan of leaves away from each other. Plant 18-24 inches apart. Make sure the tubers are not planted too deep-they should be at the soil line or slightly above.
    piture is worth a thousand words see this video. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lYyDdS53l4c&feature=related

    Reply
50. Susan Babbitt - May 22, 2011 at 11:45 am

    Hi! Thank you so much for this site. I just planted my first bearded iris garden after being raised with one at my mother’s house. I now know why we didn’t get as many blooms after several years of them being planted- they needed to be divided. This year I planted my bed in half wine barrels. They grew wonderfully and had beautiful blooms. Although three wine barrels filled up quickly- I will definately have to divid them in three years. My left over ones I put in large growers pots- most bloomed, some did not. I might have to thin a few pots out. We are on a drip system up here so what the landscapers didn’t put in I have to put in pots or wine barrels. A raised bearded Iris bed would be nice, eventually. I didn’t realize irises can get so many diseases. I have a rose garden also that I constantly work at to keep disease free.

    Iris are beautiful flowers and easy to grow once you know what to do. Thanks for your input.

    Reply
51. Ray - May 29, 2011 at 9:05 am

    Planted too deep
    Hi Kris,
    I planted Iris bulbs last year in my sister’s back yard which gets a lot of sun right through the year. Tall leaves about a foot high have grown beautifully; however there are no flowers yet. The bulbs were planted only about 4″ deep – reading above comments, I’m wondering if that is too deep? Should I dig them up and re-plant closer to the surface? How much below the soil line should the top of the bulb be? Should I wait till the leaves are beginning to die down, and dig up only later in July/August? I would really like to see these beautiful plants bloom, so all advice is welcome. Thanks!

    Hi Ray
    The iris are planted too deep. They should be planted even with the soil surface or with 1/3 of the rhizome above the soil surface. For best results, wait until the leaves die down to dig and move your iris. See above article under “divide and transplant”.

    Reply
52. Joyce - June 7, 2011 at 3:36 pm

    Hi! It is early June and my Iris have already bloomed and died. However, I have always prized the leaves for year round foliage. This year, and for a few years in a row now, the leaves have been turning brown and shriveling up. Any ideas? We’ve had a lot of rain the past two springs in a row; could that be the problem or could it be that they just need to be divided?

    Hi Joyce
    Browning foliage can be a sign of disease (leaf spot disease) or insect infestation (http://hortchat.com/info/iris-borer). You might check the tubers when you are ready to divide and transplant.

    Reply
53. melanie Vu - July 21, 2011 at 4:44 pm

    Fertilze iris
    When should I give my Iris plant food?

    Hi Melanie
    Fertilize iris in early spring and 4 weeks after bloom.

    Reply
54. Julie - August 2, 2011 at 12:22 pm

    Hi, I am a new gardener who moved from Arizona to Oregon last year. My mom has always grown Irises with very little care and gave me some to bring with me. I had them planted in the ground last year and one bloomed, this year they did not. Just this month, I decided that since I am renting it would probably be a better idea to pot them, however, the leaves are excessively long and even when they were in the ground they drooped over. I did read that staking them would be a solution but I was also wondering if trimming the leaves back would work in keeping them from drooping. As it is, they are leaning from the base of the plant anyway (did I plant them incorrectly?). Am I doing something wrong or is there another solution to keeping them upright?

    Hi Julie
    Since you repotted them, you can cut the leaves back. Cut the leaves to 1/3 of their full height and replant them the same way they were planted. The rhizome tops should be planted even or 1/3 of the rhizome above the soil surface. Frankly, your iris will grow much better in the ground. They may not have bloomed because they were newly planted and were establishing themselves. The potted iris will have to be stored outside or in a cool spot (40-50F) during the winter so they can go through a cool dormant period.

    Reply
55. jeannette christ - September 10, 2011 at 7:05 am

    Iris borer
    iris have pin holes on there roots what is it please

    Hi Jeanette
    It sounds like the rhizomes have iris borer. The larvae enter the leaves through tiny pinholes and burrow their way down to the rhizome. see http://hortchat.com/info/iris-borer

    Reply
56. Heidi - May 2, 2012 at 1:19 am

    Hi, I have to get my irises out of my garden to make room for a shed. How can I transplant them successfully without losing this year’s bloom? Will they survive if divided in Spring? I usually dig them up in September after they’ve bloomed, but I don’t have a choice. What I’d like to know is should I bother going to the trouble of replanting or should I just throw them away? Heidi

    Hi Heidi
    Dig them up anyway and plant them. They should survive and perhaps may even bloom, if you do it soon.

    Reply
57. jovan - July 18, 2012 at 6:45 pm

    Seed pod
    My irises have been done blooming for a few weeks now here in Spanaway, WA… One of them left a giant pod at the top of the stem…looks alien like… What is it? Do I cut it off?

    Hi Jovan
    It is a seed pod. You can leave it on the stem and let it ripen, then plant the seeds or cut it off. You can plant the seeds to make more plants. If they are hybrids you may not get the same plant as the parent.

    Reply
58. Mimi - July 19, 2012 at 1:34 pm

    I have a few Iris plants that are very old. Previous owner planted them so I have no idea of the variety. One of them sprouted a very long stem that developed a baseball sized ball of small, light green balls and each has a tendril coming out of the far end of it. I don’t know what this is. The stem blew over in a heavy wind so I cut it off and have been drying it upside-down for a couple of weeks. Small light green balls look the same. Any ideas?

    Hi Mimi
    Most likely it’s a seed pod. Can you send a picture? send to Kris@hortchat.com

    Reply
59. Justin Waldman - August 29, 2012 at 11:42 am

    The link I’ve proved is a small iris album on Facebook which has, amongst other iris photos, three photos of the problem irises – a v-shaped cut out of the Iris inflorescence stalks which occurs in the vicinity of the flower nodes. A local nurseryman has suggested they are caused by a form of scale insect and has given me “oleum” (a mineral oil) to spray into the area. Under a powerful jeweller’s glass I can see no sign of any insect – just the v-shaped nick out of the stem. I have had, and I think got under control, grey aphids (being tended by ants) – which I have attacked with a mixture of water, dishwash liquid, olive oil, garlic and chili – this seems to have ruined the aphids’ will to live.

    Reply
60. Shalaka - March 17, 2013 at 9:31 pm

    Iris done blooming
    HI, I am new at growing Iris.Its the first time. I am from India and hot summers have already started. My Iris have bloomed and now they are drying out. The leaves have gone yellow. What should I do now so that they bloom again? And when will they bloom again? What is the right time to transplant?

    Hi Shalaka
    Generally, Iris will bloom once per season. There are some varieties that will rebloom in a season. Iris prefer cooler temperatures to bloom. Best time to transplant them is after they are finished blooming. I suspect that your iris is finished blooming for the season. It should continue to grow leaves. I’m not sure if they are drying out from the heat/lack of water, disease or an insect problem (iris borer). When you transplant, check the tubers for mushy spots or holes.
    If you have a reblooming variety, it may bloom later in the season when temperatures are cooler.

    Reply
61. Tammie Stine - April 28, 2013 at 6:56 am

    my husband cut the leaves off my Iris before they evn had a chance to bloom, will they recover? they were a established plant, he also took his weed eater and wacked the heads off my daylily plants will they recover and will I get blooms?

    Hi Tammie
    OOPS it happens. Your iris and daylilies should produce more leaves this season. I would encourage more growth by side dressing it with fertilizer and make sure they get optimal growing conditions.

    Reply
62. wendi bennett - May 20, 2013 at 3:54 pm

    Winterover iris in barrel
    After several years of begging…..my husband got me some 1/2 barrels for planting. I do not have the best green thumb, but I’ve had good luck in the past with Irises ( My favorite flower). We live in Billings Montana, If I planted Irises in said barrels would they live through our freezing winter?? I don’t have the option to put them in the ground… Thank you!

    Hi Wendi
    Plants grown in containers usually do not survive the winter as there is not enough insulation to protect the roots from the thawing and freezing cycle. If you can move the barrel into the garage for cold protection and add a few inches of mulch on top for insulation, your iris may survive the winter.

    Reply
63. Tia M. - February 17, 2014 at 8:05 am

    Hi, I know this is an old post, but will try a question anyway! What type of Iris is in the picture at the top of the post? I’m a huge Iris fan and have many beautiful colors in my yard. I have been looking for a stunning red to add to my collection. The one pictured above is beautiful! Thanks so much!

    Reply
    1. India V. - July 1, 2014 at 8:25 am

       Hi Tia,
       I know it’s late to contact you, but I just read your post asking about gorgeous red bearded Iris on the hortchat.com website. Did you ever get an answer about its name? Do you know where to buy them?
       I’m not having any luck with my online search.
       Thanks,
       India

       Hi Tia
       The iris in the photo is “Saturday Night Live”
       Kris

       Reply
    2. India V. - July 1, 2014 at 8:26 am

       Wish I’d spelled that first. I meant “red” not “read”. duh:)

       India

       Reply
64. Phillipa - May 6, 2015 at 11:34 am

    My irises have been blooming beautifully with often several blooms originating from the same site on the plant; however, suddenly the second buds have turned brown and “died on the vine.” There seem to be no signs of bugs and they are not over-watered. What could it be? I am so sad to lose these second comings.

    Have you had frost or cold weather, lots of rain?

    Reply
65. gloria - May 10, 2015 at 1:47 pm

    I was given a bunch of iris’s to transplant. Looked on website for directions and planted as instructed. It’s only been 24 hours but they are limp. I did cut off a lot of the top as instructed to take away the heaviness but still falling over. Have I killed them or should I leave them alone and see what happens?

    Hi Gloria
    If you trimmed the tops just leaves the plant alone. It needs time to establish some roots this season.

    Reply
66. Sarah Burks - March 27, 2016 at 1:28 pm

    We had one small clump of iris in zone 8b FL – these bloomed sparsely each spring. I brought some rhizomes with us to a new home in the same zone.
    I planted them on a small ridge in late summer. I really did not expect any blooming this spring. The plants had long leaves when I transplanted them and I left them. They died back and grew only short leaves (none over 12″ and some only 3″-4″. One of the shorter plants did bloom. I am concerned about why the leaves are only growing to this short height.

    Reply