April - When soil dries sufficiently to work with in your garden, clean
all the debris from around the iris. The Iris Borer lay their eggs in the
fall and this is one way to help eliminate them. At this time, shallowly
loosen the soil as this will allow the soil to warm and dry. Do not
scratch the rhizone with your hoe as this will create the entry point for
bacteria that could cause soft rot.
May - This is the time of year that many gardeners apply mulch to their
gardens. There are many different choices for a mulch on the market - do
not use ANY of them on your Iris! The rhizones grow naturally on top of
the soil and do not like to be buried. Iris need the sun in order to keep
them dry and healthy. A mulch cover would keep them moist and be a
possible cause for soft rot. May is also the time to keep an eye on the
leaves for watery streaks or jagged edges in the centre of the fan. These
are the signs of Borer. Put your thumb and forefinger at the base, apply
pressure as you slide your fingers toward the top - squeezing the Borer.
you may also gently pull the leaves apart to find the Borer and destroy it.
Planting Bearded Iris - For best results plant late July to early September.
Colder areas are best planted early. Iris need at least one half day of
sun but do best in full sun. Good drainage is important as Iris will not
grow properly in wet areas. If your area is damp, plant your Iris on a
slope or in a raised bed. In heavy clays it helps to add coarse sand
and/or humus. If your soil is acidic, add lime. If its alkaline, add
sulfur. If you are unsure about your soil contact your local garden centre
to see if they have a testing service available.
When planting, prepare your soil with a light application of bone meal or
superphosphate or 5-10-10 fertilizer. Remember not to use too much
nitrogen (the '5' in this example). When planting spread the roots and
plant with the top of the rhizone level with the soil surface; in sand cover
with one inch of soil water well when planted and not again unless it's a dry
season. Do not over water as it does more damage than under watering.
Check back for more information about how to care for your Iris in the fall.
Check back for more information about how to care for your Iris in the
winter.
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