Over time, iris become crowded and
they stop blooming, so it’s important to dig and divide iris about every 3-4
years in order to reinvigorate the plant. 
Iris grow in clumps and the root of an iris is called a rhizome. It is the rhizome that we
are going to lift carefully, using a garden fork. You can use a shovel, but be
careful to not damage the rhizomes.
Once out of the ground, cut or break apart
the rhizomes into sections, with a
healthy set of leaves and firm, tan/white roots.
Get rid of rhizomes that are
soft, mushy or have holes in them. Dust the rhizomes you keep with Sulfur.
Next, cut the leaves back to about a third of their
length.
You are now ready to re-plant. Iris rhizomes grow away from the toe, in
the direction of the heel, so keep this in mind as you plant. Iris need well
drained soil, so take time to amend your soil with Sheep, Peat and Compost. Add
some Bone Meal and place the rhizome in the hole, roots spread out and cover
with soil deep enough to just cover the top of the rhizome. Water well and add
more soil if necessary. Your iris will establish themselves through the fall
and early winter and be ready to bloom for you next spring.
No comments:
Post a Comment