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Iris Culture In Tucson
Extra
Amendments (optional):
Bonemeal, bloodmeal, and other slow release fertilizers
like Osmocote, can be very expensive to use in the entire
planting. Mix about a tablespoon into the hole when you
are planting your rhizomes.
Mix all the ingredients and fill the iris bed. Tap the soil gently and remove any rocks or debris. Rake smooth and water thoroughly. Let soil settle for a day or two. Rake the bed flat again. Now you're ready to plant your iris rhizomes.
Spuria Iris
Spurias are beardless iris that grow 3' to 5' with reed-like foliage and flowers similar to Dutch iris. They are tall design elements at the back of border beds. Most varieties are deciduous (foliage dies after bloom), but come back after a dormant spell. Some varieties stay green all year round. This iris usually blooms after tall bearded varieties.
Plant
in full sun but will get along with 1/2 day of sunlight.
Soil and Fertilizer is the same as bearded iris.
Water during the growing season with ample amounts. After
bloom season and leaves die back, don't water because they
are dormant. Wait for new growth next season.
Dig and Divide as bearded Iris (July to September). Wash
rhizomes, cut back foliage, and store.
Store rhizomes wrapped in wet paper toweling and in a plastic
bag. Store rhizomes in a refrigerator, not the freezer!
Louisiana Iris
The Louisiana iris was hybridized from native bog irises in the Mississippi delta region. They are beardless and bloom at the same time as the Bearded iris. The foliage is green all year. The width of the leaf is between a Spuria and a Bearded. There are short, intermediate, and tall varieties. Flower form is varied from the Bearded and Spurias.
Plant
with 1/2 day sun (morning preferred) or less. They can tolerate
shade. Plant in the ground, large pots, or submerge containers
in ponds, fountains, or water features.
Soil and Fertilizer to create and acid soil. Triple super
phosphate; 3 pounds of Soil Sulfur and 2 pounds Ammonium
Sulfate. Feed frequently with acid emphasis product such
as "Mir-acid". To counteract yellow leaves, use
iron chelate according to package directions.
Water every day if needed to provide ample amounts. Mulch
with a thick layer of pine needles to retain moisture. In
pots, line with plastic to keep water from draining through.
Dig and Divide in October. Prepare as Spurias.
Store as Spurias.
Contact TAIS for more information regarding container preparation for water features.