Dividing Iris
Whether you're looking to expand your planting of iris or just need
to rejuvenate an older planting, late summer through early fall is a good
time to lift and divide iris. Dividing every 3-5 years will help rejuvenate
the planting and encourage more blossoms for the subsequent years.
Most iris plants spread by means of underground stems called rhizomes.
These rhizomes become too crowded over time, resulting in reduced flowering.
By lifting and dividing the larger clumps, you can rejuvenate the old
planting as well as provide a source of new plants to expand your garden
or share with friends.
Dig the clumps by inserting a spade around the circumference of the planting.
Then, insert the spade beneath the clump and lift. Deep spading should
not be necessary as iris rhizomes and roots are rather shallow.
Use a sharp knife to cut the younger, outward-growing rhizomes into sections,
leaving as many roots and buds on each piece as possible. For ease in
replanting, cut the leaves to one-third their original height. Discard
the old central portions of the original rhizome, as well as any sections
that appear to be diseased or infested with iris borer.
Replant the newly cut sections as soon as possible to avoid excessive
drying. Planting depth is important, and this is where most gardeners
make their mistake. Iris rhizomes should be placed just below the soil
surface with the roots pointing down and the cut leaves upright and exposed
to the sun. Gently firm the soil and water thoroughly. Newly set plants
will likely require weekly watering until they establish a new root system.
8-18-05
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