Why Won't a Bearded Iris Bloom?
Iris plants are a colorful, statuesque addition to any flower garden. Although the plants are relatively straightforward, bearded iris does take specific conditions to maintain its bloom. Does this Spark an idea?
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Bearded Iris
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Bearded iris is a large breed of iris plant. It also is known as German iris. It is more tolerant to cold than some other iris plants, and can grow large beautiful iris blooms in northern temperate zones.
Iris Growing Needs
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All irises require full sunlight and quick-draining soils. They also require adequate warmth, and usually receive mulch over the winter. Too little sun, or inefficient drainage, damages a bearded iris and its ability to grow. Bearded iris is best planted in July, August or September.
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Iris Blooms
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Bearded iris plants bloom in the spring for 3 to 4 weeks. With appropriate care and pruning, some varieties of iris rebloom through the summer.
Iris Maintenance
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Irises are divided at the roots every 2 to 3 years, or when the plants' growth and blooming is restricted. Old foliage and wasted flower stalks are pruned away through the summer to encourage iris reblooming.
Troubleshooting Iris
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The most common reason for a bearded iris to stop blooming is overcrowding. Iris plants must be divided to allow the plants room to grow and bloom. If a bearded iris is given space, and all its lighting and water needs are met, it will bloom every spring.
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- Photo Credit Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of jenny downing
