blue iris
Iris spuria
Cycle:
Herbaceous Perennial
Watering:
Average
Propagation:
Division,Seed Propagation,Cutting,Layering Propagation
Hardiness Zone:
5 - 9
Flowers:
Blue, white, purple, wine or brown Flowers
Sun:
Full sun
Leaf:
Yes
Leaf Color:
green
Growth Rate:
Low
Maintenance:
Moderate
Drought Tolerant:
Yes
Salt Tolerant:
Yes
Invasive:
Yes
Care Level:
Medium
watering
Blue Iris should be watered deeply once or twice per week depending on the weather conditions. During times of high temperatures, more frequent watering may be necessary. To water Blue Iris, use a slow and steady stream of water. Allow the moisture to reach the plant’s root system. When soil is looking dry or crunchy to the touch, it’s time to water.
sunlight
Blue iris plants require full sun for best blooms, and will do best with 4 to 6 hours of direct sun per day. They should be planted in an area with at least 6 to 8 hours of sunlight throughout the day during the spring and summer. If possible, give your sun-loving blue iris a place that gets morning sun and afternoon shade. In areas with particularly hot summers, some afternoon shade may be beneficial. Blue iris also tolerate partial shade, where they may bloom slightly less, but still remain healthy and produce some flowers.
pruning
Blue iris (Iris spuria) should be pruned in late summer, usually after the blooming period is over. First, remove any dead or broken stems. Then, cut back the stems to about 4–6 inches from the ground. Finally, thin out the remaining new growth by cutting it back to 2 or 3 buds; this will encourage the plant to send up more new stems. Be sure to use sharp bypass pruners when pruning to minimize damage to the plant. Prune lightly for the best bloom and don't be afraid to remove any faded flowers or older foliage.
