tall bearded reblooming iris
Iris 'Spirit of Memphis'
Cycle:
Herbaceous Perennial
Watering:
Average
Propagation:
Division,Cormlet Propagation,Seed Propagation,Tissue Culture
Hardiness Zone:
3 - 10
Flowers:
Yellow Flowers In Spring
Sun:
Full sun
Leaf:
Yes
Leaf Color:
purple
Growth Rate:
High
Maintenance:
Moderate
Drought Tolerant:
Yes
watering
Tall bearded reblooming iris (Iris 'Spirit of Memphis') should be watered deeply once a week during the plant's growing season, which is from March to mid-May in most regions. During this time, the soil around the roots should be kept moist, but not saturated - about 1-2 inches below the surface. During the summer months, when the plant is in its dormant state, water less often to prevent root rot. Once a month should usually suffice. Additionally, during the bloom season, a light misting with a hose can be beneficial.
sunlight
Tall bearded reblooming iris (Iris 'Spirit of Memphis') prefers full sunlight, which means it should get at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day in order to bloom. Morning sun is preferable to afternoon sun for this type of iris, as too much afternoon sun can cause the flowers to fade quickly. Morning sun helps the tall bearded reblooming iris absorb the necessary energy needed for bloom. Additionally, the sunlight will help provide necessary warmth to help the iris bloom consistently.
pruning
Tall bearded reblooming iris plants (Iris 'Spirit of Memphis') benefit from a yearly pruning. Prune the plant in late June or early July, as soon as the blooms have gone. Begin by cutting off any faded, dead or diseased flowers at the base. Cut away any of the foliage below the bloom, leaving an inch or 2 of foliage on the stem. Cut off any foliage that looks damaged by disease or other pests. Then, use pruning shears to shorten the entire stem just above the foliage line. Remove the whole stem. This helps to keep the plant healthy and will encourage more blooms. Finally, prune off any old growth in the center of the plant. This will help keep it from getting overgrown and will make way for new growth and blooms.