Iris bulbs

Iris bulbs planting instructions

Well-drained soil

Plant your iris bulbs where the soil drains well. If puddles of water remain 5-6 hours after a hard rain, find another site. Alternatively, amend the soil by adding organic material to raise the level 2-3 inches, which will improve the drainage. Peat moss, compost, ground bark or decomposed manure all do the trick and are widely available. Dig holes and plant your iris bulbs 4 inches deep and 3 inches apart. The bulbs look like small pointed onions; plant with the point facing upwards.

Full sun

Plant your irises where they will receive full sun.

Iris maintenance instructions

Soak thoroughly

After planting your iris bulbs, water them well, soaking the area thoroughly.

Climate dependent growth

In warmer climates, iris foliage will develop in the autumn, taller growth will begin in winter and flowers will appear in the spring. In colder regions, iris foliage and flowers will hold back until the winter cold has subsided, and will develop in the spring.

Cut Iris for your bouquest

When in bloom, feel free to cut iris flowers for bouquets. This will not damage your plants, so make the most of it.

Keep dry when dormant

After blooming is over for the season, leave iris foliage alone; don't cut it off. The leaves will continue to gather sunlight and provide nourishment for next year's display. Water as necessary during active growth periods, but bear in mind that irises actually prefer not to be watered when dormant.

Remove foilage end of summer

As summer draws to a close, iris leaves will yellow and die back as the plant retreats into dormancy. Foliage can be removed at this point. Your iris will rest for a few months before starting the next growing cycle.

Our iris bulbs, as well as all our other products, are delivered with detailed planting instructions.

Click here to check out our full collection of Iris!