Transplanting Iris
Give overgrown and poor flowering iris a helping hand for a beautiful spring garden.
You can start transplanting bearded iris about 8 weeks after they finish flowering. Cut the leaves back in a fan shape to about 6 to 8 inches above the ground. Lift the rhizomes and check for borers. These white worm-like insects feed inside of the rhizome causing plants to wilt and eventually die. Remove any damaged, soft, and discolored portions as well as old non-flowering segments before replanting.
Plant the healthy rhizomes 5 inches apart in properly prepared soil. Add several inches of compost or other organic matter to improve the soil. Set the rhizomes just below the soil surface or half buried with the leaves and buds facing upward.
Water thoroughly now and as needed.
And don’t be concerned if your new planting doesn’t flower next spring. Your effort and patience will be rewarded with beautiful blooms the following spring.
A bit more information: Winter mulch can help late plantings survive cold winters. Apply a layer of weed-free straw or evergreen boughs over the plants once the ground freezes.
Related
Audio
Audio
Audio
Categories
Upcoming Webinars & Appearances
Feb. 4, 2023
WCBA's Home Building &
Remodeling EXPO
West Bend, Wisconsin
Feb. 8, 2023
WEBINAR:
Indoor Container Garden Design & Display Ideas
Register now
Feb. 10-12, 2023
PBS Wisconsin
Garden & Landscape EXPO
Madison, Wisconsin
Feb. 15, 2023
WEBINAR:
10 Tips for Growing Better Dahlias!
Register now
Feb. 17-19, 2023
NARI Milwaukee Spring Home Improvement Show
West Allis, Wisconsin
Feb. 22, 2023
WEBINAR:
Grow Beautiful Water Gardens
Register now
Watch Melinda's past webinars ON DEMAND
Learn More