Saturday, December 3, 2011

Siberian Iris

Siberian iris, are one of the most carefree, taller garden flowers. Given proper spacing, a 6" pot of these beauties can grow into a plant 1-2' across in a couple of years. "sibs" as they are commonly called, bloom right after the tall bearded iris. Bloom period lasts about 1 month. Their color range is white, yellow, pink, blues & purples. Sibs have thin, but sturdy grassy foliage, adding that 'swish' to the garden on breezy days. Unlike regular iris, they are seldom bothered by iris borer.

Above is 'White Swirl.' This iris has a very long bloom period. All sibs will last cut in a vase one week or more, with the water changed daily. Clumps of sibs should be divided every 3-5 years. The more space they start with, the less frequent you have to divide. Keep in mind, the longer you wait to divide, the harder it is to dig that plant up.

"Pink Haze" is above. So pretty. Even after it rains, these flowers hold up well.

Plant info:

height: 24-40"

locate: in full sun to 1/2 shade

water: prefers moist location, but once established will tolerate drought

insect & disease: nothing major, very carefree

fertilizer: average to none in healthy soil

hardiness: some of the toughest plants around, maybe winter mulch 1st winter

fall care: cut back tops after hard frost

Earthworks will have all of these and more available in pots this spring and lots in the field for cutting.

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