From Bonnie's Garden
Iris Planting Guide
Everything you need to get your new iris in the ground and thriving — from planting day through their first winter.
When to Plant
Late Summer – Early Fall
Plant as soon as you receive them — they're ready to go.
Sunlight
6+ Hours Direct Sun
Full sun is essential. Morning sun with afternoon shade is OK in hot climates.
Spacing
12–18 Inches Apart
Gives rhizomes room to multiply and ensures good airflow.
Planting Depth
Top of Rhizome Exposed
The rhizome top should sit at the soil surface — never bury it.
Step by Step
Planting Your Iris
Choose Your Spot
Pick a location with 6+ hours of direct sun daily. Good drainage is critical — iris rhizomes rot in soggy soil. Consider a raised bed if your soil stays wet.
Prepare the Soil
Clear weeds and debris. For heavy clay soil, work in compost to improve drainage. Iris prefer slightly alkaline soil that doesn't hold excess moisture.
Dig & Position
Dig a hole 10–12 inches wide and 4–6 inches deep. Build a small mound in the center, set the rhizome on top, spread roots down the sides. Rhizome top stays exposed to sun.
Backfill & Water
Fill in around the roots, keeping the rhizome top exposed. Water thoroughly to settle the soil. Keep lightly moist while roots establish — but don't overwater.
Mulch Carefully
Light mulch around plants is fine, but keep it away from the rhizome itself. Mulch piled against it traps moisture and causes rot.
Ongoing Care
Remove dead blooms and damaged leaves. In late fall, trim foliage to about 6 inches. Once established, bearded iris are remarkably drought-tolerant.
Bonnie's Tips
Things I've Learned in 20+ Years
The #1 Killer Is Overwatering
More iris are lost to soggy soil than anything else. When in doubt, water less. Established iris barely need supplemental watering.
Divide Every 3–4 Years
When clumps get crowded, blooms decline. Dig, separate the newest rhizomes, discard the old centers, replant. Best done right after bloom season.
Go Easy on Nitrogen
High-nitrogen fertilizer produces lots of leaves but fewer blooms. A low-nitrogen formula (like 6-10-10) in early spring is all you need.
Companion Planting
Daylilies, salvia, and lavender pair beautifully with iris and fill the garden after iris finish blooming in spring.
Need a Hand?
Bonnie's Here to Help
Questions about a specific variety? Just ask — Bonnie personally replies to every growing question.