How to Store Iris Rhizomes for the Winter

If you are planning to move, take your favorite iris plants with you.

The iris blooms in late spring or early summer. Most irises can survive winter temperatures, but some might suffer damage to the rhizomes, the plant stems. If you are planning on moving in the middle of winter, going outdoors and digging in the cold, hard ground is not feasible. You can dig them up before the frost and put them in storage. Now the iris can move with you.

Things You'll Need

• Shears
• Spade or shovel
• Window screen
• Paper bag or cardboard box

Instructions

1. Cut the foliage of the iris down in the early fall. The leaves should be yellow-brown.

2. Dig the iris rhizomes carefully before the first frost. You can usually see the iris rhizome on the surface of the ground. To be sure, dig a few inches from the plant's base so you don't accidentally damage the rhizome.

3. Spray the rhizome with a water hose to remove the dirt. If the ground has a disease or bugs, washing the rhizome will keep the disease from transferring to the new location.

4. Dry the rhizomes by putting them in a shady area and out of drying winds. It will take from one to three days for the iris rhizomes to dry. Turn the rhizomes so all the surface will dry. You can place them on a screen so there will be ventilation on both sides.

5. Place the iris rhizomes into a paper bag or a cardboard box. Do not use plastic because plastic sometimes retains too much moisture.

6. Place the bag or box where the temperature stays between 45 and 60 degrees F. Store the iris rhizomes in a darkened area and away from drafts until you are ready to plant them outdoors in the spring. Check the rhizomes occasionally to make sure they are not rotting or dried out.

References

• Pleasants Valley Iris Farm: Frequently Asked Questions
• Plan and Plant: Storing Bulbs
• North Dakota State University Extension Service: Questions on Iris