Product Review

Dutch iris are popular with florists and home gardeners because they are dependably pretty and easy to use. Long, strong, straight stems pair with blooms that are an ideal size for medium bouquets. The clear, beautiful colors of iris fit into any arrangement. Few pleasures compare to having an abundant supply of fresh flowers for cutting and using around your home. Garden-grown blooms are also easy gifts for neighbors, office buddies and that nice lady who feeds your dog on Fridays. Outdoor Beds Find a location where the soil drains well. If there are still water puddles 5-6 hours after a hard rain scout out another site. Or amend the soil with the addition of organic material to raise the level 2-3" to improve the drainage. Peat moss, compost, ground bark or decomposed manure all work well and are widely available. Dutch irises perform best in soil that provides good drainage. Site your Dutch irises where they will receive full sun. Dig holes and plant the irises 4" deep and 3" apart. The bulbs look like small pointed onions. Plant with the pointed end facing upwards. After planting, water well, gently soaking the soil to settle it around the bulbs. In warmer climates foliage will form in the autumn, winter will bring taller growth and flowers will develop in the spring. In colder regions foliage and flowers will wait until winter's cold has passed and will develop in the spring. When in bloom, feel free to cut iris flowers for spring bouquets. This will not hurt the plants.