GROWING IRISES IN THE SUN COUNTRY AREA

Irises are one of the most beautiful and one of the easiest garden perennials to grow. Plant sizes range from 5 inches to ~5 feet tall. Flowers can be as small as 2 inches or as large as 8 inches. They come in a wide array of colors and patterns.

Irises also come in different types. Those most easily grown in our area are: Bearded, Aril and Arilbred, Spuria, and Louisiana. Each type includes varieties that bloom early, middle, and late in the season. By growing different types and varieties, you can extend the bloom season--usually March through May.

Irises like sun. If your planting site has only a half day of sun, the morning sun is preferable. Irises will not bloom in deep shade.

Irises like well drained soil. No water should stand in the bed. If necessary, raise the bed slightly above the level of the surrounding area.

Irises like good air circulation. Provide growing space appropriate to the type of iris. Keep beds clean and free of weeds and other debris.

IRIS BLOOM PARTS

Standards (S) - The 3 upper petals. Falls (F) - The 3 lower petals. Beards - Fuzzy area at top of F of Bearded types. Signals - Contrasting color on F of Beardless types.

COLOR PATTERNS

Self - Standards and falls are the same color.

Bitone - Falls are a darker tone of the standard color.

Bicolor - Standards and falls are different colors.

Amoena - A bicolor with white standards.

Variegata - A bicolor with yellow standards.

Blend - One color blended into one or more others.

Plicata - Petals are edged in a different color, usually on a white or yellow background.

For more information on a specific iris type, click on one of the following buttons.