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Irises are among the easiest of perennials to grow, and they give an abundance of beauty with minimum care. The iris has a thick fleshy root called a "rhizome" (pronounced rye-zome) about like a tough potato in texture. When you buy a new iris, you will probably receive a rhizome with clipped roots and leaves. It can remain out of the ground for a week or two without serious harm, but the sooner it is planted, the better.
Now prepare for that Springtime Indoor splendor show. The potting mixture of one third garden soil, one third sand, and one third store bought potting soil with fertilizer mixed well. Fill a shallow plastic four inch pot to the rim and soak with water. The soil may settle and more may be needed. Set the rootless rhizomes (dwarf iris work best) half exposed in the soil and firm it with your fingers. Make sure the soil level is at the top of the pot so no water can stand in the pot. New roots will form quickly and wrap around the soil in the pot.
Watering the plants may become necessary depending on the weather. It is best to let the Iris soak up water from the bottom drainage holes. Leave the pots outside in full sun on the ground and mulch around the pot.
In April, the Dwarf Iris are ready to bud and bloom. Place as many of the four inch pots in a larger table display copper or galvanized tub surrounded and camouflaged by moss and let the show begin!
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for flowers with patience and love.
each blossom for its own beauty.
sunshine and rain with equal grace and gratitude.
each season with pleasure and
wisely and well.