Culture of Iris

Irises are among the most popular and beautiful garden flowers for Midwest landscapes. Irises can be divided into bearded and beardless types. Bearded irises are the most popular and widely grown irises in Nebraska.

Irises grow from an enlarged underground stem called a rhizome, which grow just below the soil surface. They are the source of growth for fans of leaves, flowers and the roots that anchor the plant. Plant iris rhizomes from mid-July to early September. This allows adequate root growth and establishment before winter.

Irises require the same good cultural care as other perennials. They perform well with one fertilizer application per year. Rhizomes multiply rapidly and may require dividing every two to five years. They are relatively carefree plants. Sanitation is the key to controlling pests.