Bearded Iris

Bearded Iris

If planting bulbs is on your list of outdoor projects this fall, consider adding bearded irises to your landscape.  These sun-loving, hardy perennials display a stately beauty in an endless rainbow of colors.  The bearded iris is known for its intriguing blooms featuring three upright and three hanging petals.  Most varieties flower in spring and some re-flower in summer and fall. 

When planted properly, the bearded iris grows effortlessly.  It should be planted in late August and September to give its roots an opportunity to become established before winter.  Choose a sunny, elevated area of your yard that drains water quickly.  The bearded iris is sold as a bare root rhizome this time of year.  For best results, loosen the top twelve inches of soil and mix in compost.  Then plant your rhizomes, or fleshy underground stems, twelve to fifteen inches apart.  The top half of each rhizome must remain above-ground.  Push the soil firmly around each rhizome and water thoroughly.  But do not cover your rhizomes with mulch because the top half must remain exposed to sunlight.  Your bearded irises will grow approximately 34 to 40 inches high, and should be divided every four years.     

 Stein Gardens & Gifts has 20 different varieties of bearded irises to choose from.  Visit our garden center today to select the varieties that are right for you.    

Source:  www.beardediris.net