Irises are resilient, low-maintenance perennial plants prized for their stunning flowers and wide range of colors, from vibrant purples and blues to soft whites and yellows. With their graceful, sword-shaped leaves and distinctive blooms, irises can bring a striking visual appeal to any garden. Their ability to thrive in various climates and growing conditions makes them a popular choice for both new and experienced gardeners. Whether planted in groups or individually, irises can add a vibrant pop of color and beauty to your outdoor space. While irises are typically planted in the fall, some iris rhizomes flourish when planted in the spring. Here, iris experts offer their professional advice on planting, growing, and caring for spring-planted irises. Meet the Experts: Josh Sullivan, a lifelong farmer and nursery grower, and product coordinator for flower bulbs and perennials at Fedco Seeds. Liz Schmidt, third-generation owner of Schreiners Gardens in Oregon, a farm known for cultivating top-quality irises on over 150 acres. Related: How to Divide Irises for Continuous Blooms Can Irises Be Planted in Spring? Irises are sturdy perennials that can be planted at any time during the growing season, including spring. “If you’re buying rhizomes in the spring, go ahead and plant them in your gardens without hesitation,” advises Josh Sullivan. However, iris rhizomes are better suited for spring planting than true bulbs, which are best planted in the fall. Benefits of Planting Irises in Spring Iris flowers follow a growth cycle that aligns well with spring planting, allowing their roots to establish before the summer heat sets in. This early start gives irises the best opportunity to produce beautiful blooms and lush foliage. “Spring planting gives rhizomes a longer growing season to establish themselves,” explains Sullivan. Moreover, spring’s frequent rainfall and warm soil provide newly planted irises with sufficient water and ideal growing conditions. Types of Irises to Plant in Spring Successful spring planting depends on the type of iris selected. According to Sullivan, suitable irises for spring planting include: Bearded irises (Iris germanica) Siberian irises (Iris sibirica) Japanese irises (Iris ensata) Dwarf iris (Iris danfordiae) Netted iris (Iris reticulata) Tips: Siberian irises are particularly hardy and can be planted as soon as the ground thaws. How to Plant Irises in Spring Planting irises in the spring is straightforward. For best results, Liz Schmidt recommends planting them in a sunny location with well-draining soil. Here’s how: Choose a spot with well-draining soil and full sun. Loosen the soil to a depth of 12 inches using a garden fork or tiller. Dig individual holes 4 inches deep and 10 inches wide, spacing them 12 to 18 inches apart. Create
How to Properly Care for Irises
For your irises to flourish and produce an abundance of blooms and healthy, slate-green foliage year after year, it is crucial to provide them with the right care and conditions.
Sunlight
Irises require six to eight hours of sunlight daily to thrive. While they can tolerate partial shade, the blooms will not be as plentiful.
Soil
Irises prefer slightly acidic, well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be crumbly and friable when held in your hands. To prevent root rot and enhance drainage, consider amending compacted or heavy soil with garden humus or compost, as recommended by Schmidt.
Water
Even though irises are drought-tolerant, it is important to water them regularly during the initial couple of weeks after planting to help the roots establish. In areas with prolonged drought periods, watering mature plants once a month should be sufficient.
Temperature
Irises thrive in warmer conditions, ideally between 60 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. In regions with cold winters, Schmidt suggests providing winter protection by mounding soil around the plants and covering them with pine boughs or weed-free straw.
Fertilizer
In early spring, apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer about six to eight weeks before your irises bloom. After the blooms have faded, reapply the fertilizer. This regimen will help ensure the proper nourishment for your irises throughout the growing season.
