Iris is an elegant rhizomatous or bulbous flowering plant. Its name comes from the Greek word for rainbow, for it comes in many colours, though the signature colour of the iris is sky blue blotched with yellow. The name Iris is both the scientific or botanical name as well as the common name.
The iris flower has three lobes - three large petals called "falls", in some species these have beards or crests, and three smaller petals, called "standards". The iris flower seems specially designed for pollinating insects - the stigmatic surfaces on the outer petals form a sort of landing pad for flying insects.
Since ancient times, the iris rhizomes were used in perfume and medicine; Iris essential oil is still used in aromatherapy.
Botanical Name
Iris
Family
Iridceae
Type
Garden Plant
Position
Irises are suitable for borders, containers and rock gardens. Japanese iris are often grown in moist sites and even standing water, such as lakes and bogs. Full sun is best for iris if you want them to flower well.
Care
The most commonly grown irises are the tall bearded type. Irises are easy to grow. Any good free garden soil will do. The rhizomes should not be completely buried; they are just covered till where you can see the top.
Watering
Ample watering is needed in spring when the iris flower buds are developing and during flowering.
Feeding
Provide a well-balanced fertilizer such as 5-10-10 or 6-10-6. Apply this during the early spring and again in early summer following bloom.
Repotting
When repotting the iris, use standard potting compost.
Propagation
Bearded iris grow from rhizomes, which produce off shoots that can be broken off and replanted.
Pests and diseases
The most annoying pest for the iris is the Iris Borer. These are tiny caterpillars that chew their way down the leaf fold, eventually reaching the rhizomes. To elimiate the iris borer, destroy their eggs. Treat iris leaves with insecticides such as Dimethoate (Cygon 2E) and lindane when the plants are 6 to 9 inches tall.
Another problem affecting irises is soft rot, a bacterial infection. To get rid of soft rot, dig up the rhizome, cut away the infected areas, dry it, then dip in a solution containing 10-12% household bleach for a few minutes, rinse it with water and then replant.
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