How to Plant Irises that Grow from Rhizomes
Some irises grow from bulbs and some grow from rhizomes. Rhizomes are thick underground
stems. They lay horizontally just under the soil and the long pointed leaves grow from the
ends of the rhizomes, in a fan-like formation. The most popular of these are the bearded
iris. The "beards" are hairs on the outer petals, known as "falls". /P>
Good drainage is a must and a mainly sunny location is best. However
some varieties of irises prefer a little shade during the day. Almost any soil is suitable
except heavy clay and very sandy soil. For heavy clay soil, add sand, humus and peat moss.
This will help the soil to drain better. For sandy soil, add humus and peat moss for water
retention. You may want to add some cow manure and a dusting of 5-10-10 fertilizer. Do not
add lime at this time. Allow the beds to settle for 1-3 weeks. Most irises do best in a
slightly acidic soil of pH 6.0-7.2 or so. Japanese irises cannot tolerate lime or
bone meal. They do best in a soil of pH 5.0-6.0.
Bearded iris rhizomes should be planted from mid summer to early fall. If the summer is
dry and hot, fall planting is best. Check the rhizome for damage or rot. Cut away damaged
parts. Dust cut surfaces with sulfur.
Plant the rhizome no deeper than 1 inch and if planting more than one, face all the
leaves in the same direction. Press the soil firmly around the rhizomes.Water thoroughly
but be careful not to wash away the soil and expose the rhizomes. Irises should be watered
often for up to 3 weeks. Apply 5-10-10 fertilzer in early spring and again about one month after
the blooms have faded.
This article is a guide only. When you buy rhizomes, be sure to read the directions
included.
Happy gardening!
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