tall bearded iris

Tall Bearded Iris (Iris 'Dutch Chocolate') should be watered thoroughly when soil is dry to the touch, generally once a week. When watering, apply enough water to fully saturate the root zone. Mulching around the base of the plant with bark chips will help to conserve moisture in the soil and reduce weed competition. It is ideal to give the plant supplemental water in dry weather or when rainfall has been scarce. It is best to water either in the early morning or evening to reduce water loss.

Tall bearded iris (Iris 'Dutch Chocolate') is a shade-tolerant species that requires at least 4 to 5 hours of direct sunlight per day. For optimal growth, the plant should be placed in a location that receives full sun most of the day - preferably from mid-morning to late afternoon. During the summer months, it should be exposed to 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight; however, some morning or late afternoon shade is beneficial in preventing the plant from becoming sunburnt. During the winter months, when the days are shorter, the plant should only receive 4 to 5 hours of direct sunlight.

Tall bearded iris (Iris 'Dutch Chocolate') should be pruned twice a year, once in the late fall and again in late winter. In the late fall, you should cut the plant down to around 6 inches tall. This will encourage a strong root system and prepare the plant for new growth come spring. In late winter, pruning the plant again to about 3 inches tall will help shape the foliage. During this pruning, you should also remove any dead foliage as well as any weak or unsightly stalks. Pruning your tall bearded iris will help to promote healthy and beautiful growth throughout its life.