Quick Overview
Flag irises , with their vivacious colors and sword - like foliage , are acaptivating additionto any garden . Planting thesemajestic flowersis arewarding experience , and with proper care , they will grace your garden with their beauty for years to come . This comprehensive guide will provide you with all the necessary step and tips to ensure successful flag iris planting .
1. Choosing the Right Location
Flag iris thrive in full sun topartial shadiness . Select a planting website that receives at least 6 minute of sunlight day by day . The soil should be well - enfeeble , as these plant do not tolerate soggy conditions . Amend the soil with compost orpeat mossto improve drainage and richness .
2. Preparing the Rhizomes
Before planting , inspect the rhizomes cautiously . Discard any that are soft , mawkish , or damaged . Healthy rootstock should be steadfast and have a white or ointment - colored DoI . Soak the rhizomes inlukewarm waterfor several hours to rehydrate them .
3. Planting the Rhizomes
Dig a hole that is double as wide as the rhizome and just late enough so that the top of the rootstalk is somewhat below thesoil aerofoil . Place the rhizome in the hole with theroots facingdown . Backfill the hole with soil andgently firmit around the rootstalk . Water exhaustively after planting .
4. Spacing the Rhizomes
Space the rhizome 12 - 18 inch apart to allow forproper growthandair circulation . Ifplanting multiple rows , space the rows 2 - 3 foot aside .
5. Mulching
After planting , spread a layer of mulch around the irises to helpretain moistureand suppress weeds . expend a material such asshredded barque , compost , or straw . Keep the mulch a few inch aside from the rhizomes to prevent rot .
6. Watering
urine theflag irises regularly , especially during the firstgrowing time of year . Allow the soil to dry out out slightly between tearing . Avoid overwatering , as this can direct to root rot .
7. Fertilizing
8. Dividing the Rhizomes
Every 3 - 4 years , divide theiris rhizomestoprevent overcrowdingand further vigorous growth . delve up the rhizomes cautiously and use a sharp tongue to part them intosmaller bunch . Replant the divided rootstalk as describe above .
9. Pests and Diseases
signal flag irises are broadly blighter - free and disease - immune . However , they can once in a while be affected by aphids , thrips , oriris borer . Treat infestations right away withinsecticidal soapor neem oil .
10. Companion Plants
sword lily irises mate well with other perennial that havesimilar growing requirements . Consider planting themalongside daylilies , hostas , or sage .
11. Harvesting Flowers
Harvest sword lily iris flowers when they arefully open . abridge theflower stalksat the base of the plant . Remove thespent bloomsto encourage more flowering .
Wrapping Up: A Symphony of Colors in Your Garden
Planting flag irises is a simple and rewarding gardening labor that willbring yearsof joy and looker to your garden . By espouse these steps and point , you’re able to ascertain that yourflag irises thriveand make a vivacious and captivating display .
Frequently Asked Questions
Q : When is the best time to implant flagstone irises?A : The ripe meter toplant flag irisesis inlate summeror early pin . Q : How often should I water sag irises?A : Water pin irises regularly , particularly during the firstgrowing season . Allow the dirt to dry out slightly between waterings . Q : How much sun doflag irisesneed?A : Flag fleur-de-lis thriveinfull sunto fond spook . They need at least 6 hours of sunshine daily . Q : What eccentric of dirt is best for flag irises?A : sword lily irises preferwell - enfeeble , rich grunge . Amend the soil with compost orpeat mosstoimprove drainageand fertility . Q : How deep should I plant flagstone flag rhizomes?A : set the rhizome just deeply enough so that the top of the rhizome is somewhat below the soil surface .
