This vast family of beautiful perennials is one of the most important of all garden plants. There are hundreds of varieties ranging through almost every color, differing in size, blooming seasons, and even habits of growth and method of propagation. The Bearded Iris group is commonly known as the German Iris and the Beard-less group includes the Japanese Iris. Within this vast family, there are many different colors, early, midseason, and late flowering, as well as dwarf, intermediate, and tall strains. Every state in the Union, with the possible exception of Florida, can successfully grow irises.
Irises demand good drainage and full sun.
A good garden soil that will produce corn or potatoes will grow irises, but for the finest flowers and foliage a high- fertility level must be maintained. Plant root divisions in the early spring or just after blooming. Early fall planting is successful in all but the most northern sections of the country. Spade planting hole about 10 inches deep and work 1 tablespoonful of fertilizer into the soil in the bottom of the hole. If the soil is heavy, some drainage material such as gravel or broken pottery should be placed in the hole.