Bearded iris. Planting and caring for irises in open ground

Our grandmothers, growing garden strawberries, or strawberries, as we used to call them, did not particularly worry about mulching. But today this agricultural technique has become fundamental in achieving high quality berries and reducing crop losses. Some might say it's a hassle. But practice shows that labor costs in this case pay off handsomely. In this article we invite you to get acquainted with the nine the best materials for mulching garden strawberries.

Succulents are very diverse. Despite the fact that “little ones” have always been considered more fashionable, the range of succulents with which you can decorate modern interior, it’s worth taking a closer look. After all, colors, sizes, patterns, degree of prickliness, impact on the interior are just a few of the parameters by which you can choose them. In this article we will tell you about the five most fashionable succulents that amazingly transform modern interiors.

The Egyptians used mint as early as 1.5 thousand years BC. It has a strong aroma due to the high content of various essential oils, which are highly volatile. Today, mint is used in medicine, perfumery, cosmetology, winemaking, cooking, ornamental gardening, and the confectionery industry. In this article we will look at the most interesting varieties of mint, and also talk about the features of growing this plant in open ground.

People began growing crocuses 500 years before our era. Although the presence of these flowers in the garden is fleeting, we always look forward to the return of the harbingers of spring next year. Crocuses are one of the earliest primroses, whose flowering begins as soon as the snow melts. However, flowering times may vary depending on the species and varieties. This article is dedicated to the earliest varieties of crocuses, which bloom in late March and early April.

Cabbage soup made from early young cabbage in beef broth is hearty, aromatic and easy to prepare. In this recipe you will learn how to cook delicious beef broth and cook light cabbage soup with this broth. Early cabbage It cooks quickly, so it is placed in the pan at the same time as other vegetables, unlike autumn cabbage, which takes a little longer to cook. Ready cabbage soup can be stored in the refrigerator for several days. Real cabbage soup turns out tastier than freshly prepared cabbage soup.

Looking at the variety of tomato varieties, it’s hard not to get confused - the choice is very wide today. Even experienced gardeners are sometimes confused by it! However, understanding the basics of selecting varieties “for yourself” is not so difficult. The main thing is to delve into the peculiarities of the culture and start experimenting. One of the easiest groups of tomatoes to grow are varieties and hybrids with limited growth. They have always been valued by those gardeners who do not have much energy and time to care for their beds.

Once very popular under the name of indoor nettle, and then forgotten by everyone, coleus today is one of the most colorful garden and indoor plants. It is not for nothing that they are considered stars of the first magnitude for those who are primarily looking for non-standard colors. Easy to grow, but not so undemanding as to suit everyone, coleus require constant monitoring. But if you take care of them, bushes made of velvety unique leaves will easily outshine any competitor.

Salmon backbone baked in Provençal herbs provides tasty pieces of fish pulp for a light salad with fresh wild garlic leaves. The champignons are lightly fried in olive oil and then water it apple cider vinegar. These mushrooms are tastier than regular pickled ones, and they are better suited for baked fish. Wild garlic and fresh dill get along well in one salad, highlighting each other’s aroma. The garlicky pungency of wild garlic will permeate both the salmon flesh and mushroom pieces.

A coniferous tree or shrub on a site is always great, but a lot of conifers is even better. Emerald needles of various shades decorate the garden at any time of the year, and phytoncides and essential oils, released by plants, not only aromatize, but also make the air cleaner. As a rule, most zoned adults coniferous plants, are considered very unpretentious trees and shrubs. But young seedlings are much more capricious and require proper care and attention.

Sakura is most often associated with Japan and its culture. Picnics in the canopy flowering trees have long become an integral attribute of welcoming spring in the Land of the Rising Sun. The financial and academic year here begins on April 1, when the magnificent cherry blossoms bloom. Therefore, many significant moments in the life of the Japanese take place under the sign of their flowering. But sakura also grows well in cooler regions - certain species can be successfully grown even in Siberia.

I am very interested in analyzing how people's tastes and preferences for certain foods have changed over the centuries. What was once considered tasty and was an object of trade, lost its value over time and, conversely, new fruit crops conquered their markets. Quince has been cultivated for more than 4 thousand years! And even in the 1st century BC. e. About 6 varieties of quince were known, and even then methods of its propagation and cultivation were described.

Delight your family and prepare themed cottage cheese cookies in the shape of Easter eggs! Your children will be happy to take part in the process - sift the flour, combine all the necessary ingredients, knead the dough and cut out intricate figures. Then they will watch with admiration as pieces of dough turn into real Easter eggs, and then with the same enthusiasm they will eat them with milk or tea. How to make such original cookies for Easter, read our step by step recipe!

Among tuberous crops, there are not so many decorative deciduous favorites. And caladium is a true star among the variegated inhabitants of interiors. Not everyone can decide to own a caladium. This plant is demanding, and first of all, it requires care. But still, rumors about the extraordinary capriciousness of caladiums are never justified. Attention and care can avoid any difficulties when growing caladiums. And the plant can almost always forgive small mistakes.

We have prepared a hearty, incredibly appetizing and simply easy-to-prepare dish for you today. This sauce is one hundred percent universal, as it goes with every side dish: vegetables, pasta, or anything. Chicken and mushroom gravy will save you in moments when you don’t have time or don’t want to think too much about what to cook. Take your favorite side dish (you can do this in advance so everything is hot), add some gravy and dinner is ready! A real lifesaver.

Among the many different varieties of these most popular vegetables, we will tell you about three that are distinguished by their excellent taste and relatively unpretentious conditions growing. Characteristics of the eggplant varieties “Almaz”, “Black Beauty” and “Valentina”. All eggplants have medium-density pulp. In Almaz it is greenish, while in the other two it is yellowish-white. What unites them good germination and excellent yield, but at different times. Everyone's skin color and shape are different.

They have long gained popularity thanks to their unusual appearance and unpretentiousness. They practically do not require any maintenance; even an inexperienced gardener can cope with growing them. A lot of varieties of this plant have been developed. In order not to get confused in such diversity, you need to study irises, varieties with photos and names in advance. This will help create a spectacular garden that will be the envy of all your neighbors.

Varieties of irises

Iris is a perennial unpretentious plant that differs unusual shape and color of flowers. It is suitable for growing on open areas, flooded sunlight. A distinctive feature of the flowers is their enchanting delicate aroma. Therefore, they are often used in the perfume industry.

Wild irises today can be found in meadows, steppes or on steep cliffs. Under the conditions, about five hundred different varieties have been bred that are suitable for growing on personal plots. They can be divided into several large groups:

bearded;
dwarf;
bulbous;
Siberian;
swamp;
Japanese.

In European countries, it is customary to divide these plants into 10–15 categories. Separately, border, Californian and some other species are distinguished. To decide which of them will take root better on your site, carefully study the irises, their varieties with photos and names.

Bearded irises

Bearded iris is considered one of the most common plant varieties. Its distinctive feature is the presence of thin hairs on the lower petals. They have a more saturated color compared to the general tone of the flower. Among the most spectacular varieties are:

This is just a small part of the variety on the market today. When choosing, pay attention to the fact that the flowers are in harmony with neighboring specimens and fit into the overall design of the site.

The height of such varieties can reach 80 cm, so you should not plant them in close proximity to light-loving low-growing plants.

Dwarf irises

The dwarf iris differs from its fellows in its small stature. The height of the peduncles does not exceed 40 cm. In most varieties this parameter is even 20 cm. They will become ideal option for decorating small compact flower beds. Among the most popular varieties are:

Dwarf irises thrive in light, moisture-permeable soils. If the soil in your garden is heavy, add sand to it before planting.

Bulbous irises

Everyone is accustomed to the fact that irises are rhizomatous plants. Modern experts have managed to develop several varieties growing from bulbs. They are distinguished by unusually early flowering. They can be compared to snowdrops. As soon as the snow melts, the first flowers appear. There are three main types:

Bulbous irises look good in a flower bed with crocuses, galanthus and so on. They will be an ideal option for alpine slides.

These varieties can be grown in pots and large flowerpots. They will be an excellent decoration for verandas and gazebos.

Siberian irises

Photos of Siberian irises are impressive. They are distinguished by the extraordinary beauty of their flowers. The value of this species is also that the foliage of the plant has a rich green color throughout the entire season. The most spectacular varieties are:

Such varieties look impressive along the banks of improvised reservoirs, in large ones. Groups of such flowers can be used to decorate the lawn, which will make the landscape unusual.

Swamp irises

Swamp iris or iris grows everywhere in our country. The leaves of this species are sword-shaped. Their length can reach two meters. This species does well in partial shade. Therefore, such flowers can be planted along fences or near trees with a not too thick crown. Among the most popular varieties are:

Having studied these varieties of irises with photos and names, we can conclude that they are ideal for group plantings. With help different types Irises can be used to create spectacular flower beds.

Japanese irises

Japanese iris has orchid-shaped flowers. Their size can vary from 15 to 25 cm. In Japan, such plants are planted so that they can be admired from above. From this angle they look most impressive.

The plants are large, so when planting between them it is necessary to maintain a distance of at least 30 cm. The most popular varieties:

After studying photos of varieties of irises, you can choose the right planting material suitable for your soil type. If you choose specimens with different flowering periods, you can admire the beauty of the flowers all summer long.

Irises bloom in the garden - video

Today I propose to talk about irises- these amazing beauty miracle flowers. Elegant, beautiful perennial is very popular among flower growers.

Irises can be seen on almost everyone summer cottages, where with their help gardeners create simply magical places to relax. This is a very unusual flower, somehow out of place - cosmic.

Iris petals have a mysterious shine and velvety surface, and the flowers themselves are distinguished by a stunning richness of shapes and shades.

Most often in the literature on floriculture they write that irises are not too demanding on growing conditions, but I probably don’t agree with this. You need to find an approach to these flowers, understand what they want in specific conditions, and simply “agree” with them.

I admit that irises, these proud beauties, did not agree to grow in my garden. The planted cuttings often rotted, sometimes they bloomed once, and then began to get sick, and so on for several years.

I re-read mountains of literature about growing irises to take into account all the nuances, and I just “talked” with them for a long time. And this summer, things seem to have moved forward - my intractable irises pleased me with their flowering, quite abundantly.

Legends and secrets

The iris was named after the Greek goddess of the rainbow, Iris, because it blooms just during the period when summer thunderstorms thunder and after warm rains a rainbow appears in the sky.

According to legend, the rainbow shimmering with all the colors in the sky crumbled into tiny fragments that fell on Iris’s dress, and it became covered with flowers of magical beauty, extraordinary colors and aromas. This is how irises appeared.

They also have another very affectionate name - killer whales. This is how in the old days in Rus' they affectionately addressed young men and women.

Irises are mentioned in ancient medical treatises, and their images can be found on ancient frescoes, and on the canvases of Renaissance masters, and on various coats of arms.

For example, one of the legends says that in the 12th century, Louis VII introduced the iris flower into his coat of arms and since then everyone has called this image the “Louis flower” or the royal lily. And the iris became a symbol of royal power due to the fact that with its help the king of the Franks was able to escape from the trap and defeat the enemy in a decisive battle.

The iris is also considered the flower of the Virgin Mary, supporting her in grief.

And another legend says that the Romans gave one of the cities the name Florence (Blooming) due to the fact that its surroundings were strewn with irises.

Irises are known not only as beautiful decorative flowers, but in some countries they are also used as medicinal plants. They are also successfully used in cooking and in the perfume industry.

An excellent expectorant and diuretic in folk medicine It is considered a decoction of dried orris roots, which is also used to reduce headaches.

Avicenna also noted its powerful antitumor, antibacterial and restorative properties.

For a long time, iris rhizomes have been used in homeopathy as an effective choleretic and sedative. The oil obtained from them is used to treat various skin diseases, as well as to improve immunity.

But at the same time, be careful and keep in mind that medicinal properties Not all types of irises have it.

In addition, irises are used to make spices, as well as flavorings for confectionery and alcoholic beverages.

A little magic

Our distant ancestors believed that many flowers have magical properties. For example, in Germany they believed that primroses would protect their houses from robbers, and in England - bells.

But in the Scandinavian countries, the iris was a protector from thieves and a talisman.

In Japan, irises are considered masculine flowers and symbolize military valor. This is due to the fact that the leaves of irises are shaped like swords, and the flowers themselves resemble helmets. Therefore, it is believed that where there are boys, it is necessary to grow irises, which strengthen morale and give courage.

On May 5th, Japan celebrates a holiday that has two names: the first is Boys' Day, and the second is Iris Day.

The Japanese also have another holiday that is associated with this noble flower - the Festival of Contemplation of Blooming Irises.

For us gardeners who have irises growing in our gardens, this holiday is more understandable and closer, since we, too, with great pleasure contemplate the blossoming of our favorite irises.
These are the secrets the most common iris keeps.

Irises - thousands of faces

On this moment The assortment of irises is so large that it is very difficult to quickly navigate and choose the appropriate set of varieties for yourself. Let's try to understand this diversity.

Irises can grow all over from southern to northern latitudes. So, for example, there is hygrophytic irises or "water lovers"; irises are facultative xerophytes or “dry lovers”; mesophytic irises who prefer moderate soil moisture; lithophyte irises, which grow without problems on rocky soils.

Here are some populations Iris bristlecone grow even beyond the Arctic Circle; salt-loving iris able to grow normally along the banks of reservoirs on soils with excess salt content; irises oncocyclus found in mountainous areas with a dry climate and distinct seasonality.

Truly unique iris calamus, which is the only hemerophilic iris, which translated from ancient Greek means “tamed, tame, homemade.”

All these types of irises are very different from each other in appearance. Irises are also divided into bulbous and rhizomatous types.

But even representatives of rhizomatous irises are very diverse: the most common iris calamus is a powerful plant (height 70-80 cm) with large leaves; short iris ponticus has peduncles so shortened that it seems as if the flowers are growing directly from the ground.

Irises also differ in flower shape: for example, spuria irises have a bandura-shaped lower petals; evancia class irises- fringed ridge on the lower lobes; bearded irises- a characteristic beard.

And the most remarkable feature of irises is, of course, the enormous variety of flower colors - there are about three hundred of them.

In order to be able to somehow navigate this variety of varieties and hybrids, a garden classification was created. It divides rhizomatous irises into 10 classes: bearded irises, aril and aribreds, Louisiana irises, Pacific coast irises, Siberian irises, Japanese irises, water-loving irises, combed irises, spuria irises and little-known irises.

The most popular among irises are bearded ones, which are also called the “northern orchid” for their beauty and grace. Next we will talk about them.

From giants to little ones

Bearded irises have their own classification of varieties, which includes 3 classes or 6 groups.

Stunted class bearded irises divided into two groups: Miniature Dwarf Bearded Irises and Standard or Common Dwarf Bearded Irises.

Miniature dwarfs have a height of no more than 20 cm; usually one flower develops on a peduncle, less often - two. These are the earliest flowering irises; their flowering begins in mid-May. They are especially good in rock gardens and on slides.

Ordinary dwarfs reach a height of up to 40 cm and most often have 2-3 flowers. They bloom immediately after miniature dwarfs - in late May-early June.

Standard dwarfs can be successfully used in mixborders and rockeries.

Dwarf bearded irises are becoming more and more popular among summer residents, as they get sick less, are more winter-hardy and require less care.

And one more surprise that dwarf irises can give us is autumn flowering. There are a number of remontant varieties of irises that bloom not only in spring, but also in late summer and autumn. These are varieties such as: Forever Blue, Forever Violet, Autumn Jester.

Earlier flowering low-growing varieties Irises allow them to ripen earlier than tall ones and have time to bloom a second time before the arrival of autumn frosts.

Class medium-sized bearded irises includes three groups: sideshow irises, table or miniature tall irises, border irises.

This class includes varieties with a height of 41 cm to 70 cm. They differ in the size and shape of the flower, the nature of branching and the timing of flowering. Medium-sized irises reproduce well, are ahead of tall irises in vitality and frost resistance, and are also less susceptible to bacteriosis.

Intermedia bearded irises, perhaps the most famous and earliest flowering of the medium-sized ones. They were developed by crossing dwarf irises and tall bearded irises.

In this regard, intermedia irises have characteristics of both. So, for example, from the tall ones they took the size of the plant and fairly large flowers (diameter 7.5-12.5 cm), and from the dwarfs - stability in adverse weather conditions and intensive growth.

Many varieties of intermedia irises, such as In A Flash, can bloom even in fairly dense shade under trees, thanks to their incomparable growth vigor.

Border irises They are most similar to tall irises, since they have the largest flowers (diameter 7.5-12.5 cm or more) among all medium-sized irises and they bloom later - at the same time as tall bearded irises.

They do not grow as intensively as intermedia and, therefore, they can not be divided and replanted often.

Table irises have the most small flowers(diameter 5.0-7.5 cm) from this class of irises. They are direct descendants of irises from the 19th century and have largely retained their appearance: an elegant, thin and branched stem with medium-sized flowers.

Table irises bloom profusely and are mainly grown for cutting, as their size is ideal for table vases and combines very harmoniously with other flowers in the bouquet.

Class of tall bearded irises has varieties that are simply amazing, truly these simply fantastic flowers seem to have appeared from some parallel world, where the laws of geometry and color combinations are completely different.

The iris flower is very original, it consists of three petals bent downwards - falls (in English “waterfall”) and three petals raised up - these are standards, from the English “banner”.

If earlier the petals of irises were simply smooth, then modern varieties without corrugation can no longer be imagined. And its diversity is simply amazing: wide waves or small swells, sea foam or baby curls.

In addition, some new varieties already have “double” corrugation, where the corrugations themselves are already corrugated.

Very beautiful irises have a border of small bubbles along the edge of the petals, which resembles a lace frill.

I would also like to mention completely non-standard flowers, which are called “space generation irises.” These are irises with flowers in which the beards have turned into horns or into formations resembling petals.

Tall bearded irises are more than 70 cm in height, and the flower diameter is more than 12.5 cm.

I tried to briefly introduce you to the limitless assortment of irises, I don’t know how I did it, since there is still no complete unified generally accepted classification of irises. In the next article, together with you, we will try to figure out how to do it correctly.

And now I invite you to watch a short video and relax a little, enjoy gentle music, the sounds of the sea, and the beauty of our amazing irises.

See you soon, dear readers!

First on the list garden favorites You can safely place bearded irises; their main distinguishing feature is a fluffy stripe located along the central vein of the outer and sometimes inner petals of the flower.

Intensive breeding work with bearded irises began at the beginning of the 19th century in Europe. Garden varieties of bearded irises were obtained by crossing eight species of iris: German iris (Iris germanica), variegated (Iris variegata), pale (Iris pallida), leafless, Cypriot, Mesopotamian, Kashmir, Trojan. Therefore, to this day, in commercial labeling, bearded irises are often called German irises. This outdated name has now been replaced by another, which very accurately reflects the essence - hybrid iris (Iris hybrida hort.), because all varieties of bearded irises are hybrids obtained as a result of repeated crossings (artificial pollinations). This is truly a flower" self made", a masterpiece created by man in union with nature.

In addition to the border, patterns of strokes of different colors, complex combinations of different colors that transform into each other, many modern varieties have a specific texture of the petals. It creates special visual effects, giving pastel varieties the matteness of alabaster or waxy translucency, and dark ones a velvety depth. Irises, like daylilies, have varieties with a “diamond coating” that sparkle in the sun or shimmer in the summer twilight.
In bearded irises, a thick perennial rhizome is located horizontally flush with the soil, long cord-like roots extend from it, forming a fibrous root system. The xiphoid leaves, covered with a bluish waxy coating, are folded like a fan. The iris flower has three perianth lobes: those facing upward are called “standards”, those deviating downwards are called “fouls”.

Older varieties of irises have narrow foils, similar to the protruding tongue of a dog. Modern varieties have wide, rounded foils, domed or crown-shaped standards and various shapes corrugation. A distinctive feature of irises of recent decades are wide fluffy beards, which in a group of varieties turn into colored “horns”, “spoons” or “frills”.

The color of the flowers has also reached amazing diversity. But, despite the focused efforts of hybridizers, the iris has not yet been developed as a uniquely red color, numerous attempts to obtain it have led to the creation of a large number of red-burgundy varieties. Therefore, it is not an exaggeration to say that the modern range of irises covers the entire range of colors, including black.

According to the American Iris Society - the leader and legislator of modern breeding of bearded irises - today there are over 80 thousand varieties. In the AIS classification, irises are divided into six garden groups, differing in peduncle height, flower size and flowering time. To choose the right plants for your garden, you should get to know them better.

(table)

A number of terms have been adopted to describe the coloring features of bearded irises:
plicata - on a light background, a pattern of dark dots and strokes merging along the edge into a border;
luminata - patterned highlights on a dark background, lighter standards;
blend (iridescent) - two or more colors smoothly transition into each other;
amena - white or lighter standards in a two-color flower, in modern varieties there is a “reverse amena”, when the standards are darker colored than the lower fouls;
splash (“torn color”) - against the background of the main color there are numerous strokes and strokes of other colors.

USE IN THE GARDEN

Originators - this is the name given to the creators of new varieties - in the process of working with the plant, they endow the flower with new properties. This is a special type of creativity aimed at finding a new visual image: in color, proportions and shape. Therefore, figuratively speaking, all garden irises are works of art.

The most hardy and winter-hardy

The lower the iris, the faster it blooms, and therefore you will be the first to greet dwarf irises. Yes, they are not so small, 40 cm is an excellent height for flowering in the first ten days of May. “Dwarfs” (SDB) are taller than groundcovers, small bulbs and emerging perennials, but on a par or slightly lower with daffodils and tulips. They overwinter without shelter, are undemanding to the soil, do not need watering, the warmth of our summer is enough for them to multiply and bloom profusely. That is why, despite their low growth, dwarf irises have become one of the most fashionable and in demand for growing in temperate climates.

Low flowers in single and group plantings look organic among stones and ground cover plants on alpine slide, bringing into the composition color accents. The fantastic variety of colors of the “dwarfs” allows you to create amazing combinations both based on contrast and within the same color range. Plant dwarf irises along with tulips, daffodils, hyacinths, miniature primroses, and the eternal problem - bare soil under the bulbous ones - will be forgotten forever.

Abundant and early flowering, unpretentiousness and fertility put dwarf irises out of competition when creating extended borders and large flowering areas, on lawns, in tree trunks, on sunny slopes. In the May garden, barely covered with the first greenery, a bright carpet of blooming irises will attract everyone's attention, and after flowering it will become almost invisible. The pointed leaves of the iris with a bluish coating remain decorative throughout the season, but they are small in height, so they do not block other plants, content with the role of a tactful background. Dwarf irises can be divided and replanted even during flowering; after a warm summer, they often bloom again in August - September. “Dwarfs” can be grown in container culture, on balconies and loggias; they feel good in pots and are easy to force out in the cold season.

The most friendly

At the beginning of June, the flowering relay passes to medium-sized bearded irises up to 70 cm high, this group consists of Intermedia (IB), Table (MTB) and Border (BB) irises. The flowers of this group of irises can be very large and numerous, but due to the smaller height of the peduncles they are resistant to the wind. Table irises, as their name suggests, will decorate not only the garden, but also the house. Their graceful flowers on strong peduncles are ideal for making bouquets. All the buds of a cut flower open, which allows it to remain decorative in a vase for a long time. Moreover, such a bouquet can bloom for you by the New Year or on March 8 - medium-sized irises lend themselves well to forcing and are able to fully bloom indoors in the winter.
The flowering of the newest varieties of foreign selection simply amazes the imagination with the size, shape of the flowers, and the amazing play of shades. However, being plants of southern origin, they may require additional attention during the period of adaptation to new climatic conditions. This especially applies to peach-pink colors; they are the most vulnerable to frost.
At the beginning of June, in the off-season, when the primroses have already faded and the annuals and perennials are still preparing to bloom, it is the medium-sized irises that will add the missing colors to the garden palette. Medium-sized irises overwinter stably, grow quickly, forming lush bushes with many flower stalks.

This is the most versatile class of irises, beautiful both in single plantings and in all forms of group planting.

In addition to creating borders and large areas, medium-sized irises are best suited for planting on slopes; their powerful root system will hold the soil layer and prevent terrain deformation.

"High genre"

Tall Irises (TV)- born soloists. By growing such a meter-long beauty near your house or path, you will give yourself the incomparable pleasure of watching the birth of a flower, the change in its outlines and shades as it grows older. An iris bush can produce 10-15 peduncles, each of which has up to 25 flowers open at the same time. The collection of irises is of particular interest to connoisseurs of fragrances, because the variety of smells in different varieties of bearded irises is no less than the range of colors and shapes.

Jasmine, peonies, foxgloves, daylilies, heucheras and onions blooming at the same time will serve as an excellent background for irises. The outstanding decorative qualities of many modern varieties with massive peduncles and large corrugated flowers will be emphasized by the restrained “accompaniment” of decorative leafy crops (sage, sage, hosta, bergenia, wormwood, cuff, sedum and young).
In all classes of bearded irises, there are varieties that are capable of repeated flowering; this property is called remontant and is designated by the abbreviation (RE). But in the middle zone this is more of a disadvantage than an advantage. In our climate, re-blooming in autumn is very irregular and occurs in dwarf and medium-sized irises after a very warm summer. All remontant varieties continue to grow actively in the fall, not having time to enter a state of dormancy before the onset of frost, which is necessary for successful wintering. Therefore, re-blooming irises are the least cold-resistant and difficult group of varieties to grow.
In group planting, varieties of pastel colors or simply similar in color look harmonious. Be especially attentive to two-color irises; they rarely “suit” planting in a single mass. In the area of contrasting combinations, a lot of possibilities are opened by the non-linear arrangement of clumps of a sufficiently large area; it is advisable to arrange groups from an odd number of varieties.

The June bloom of the tall bearded irises is truly magnificent! Their advantages are obvious, and the variety of varieties will satisfy the most demanding connoisseur. The choice depends entirely on your tastes and the location of the garden. I will only note that tall (TV) is the most demanding class of irises in terms of growing conditions.

The most unpretentious and resistant to cold, pests and diseases are the old classic irises, bred in the 19th and early 20th centuries. However, for all their endurance, they are significantly inferior to modern varieties in terms of decorative qualities. Beginning flower growers should pay attention first of all to varieties of domestic selection, one of the main priorities of which was the breeding of varieties that are most resistant to cold and disease.

SELECTION OF PLANTING MATERIAL

The planting unit of a bearded iris, the so-called “deleka”, is a piece of thick rhizome with roots extending from it and a fan of leaves, which are shortened to a length of 10-15 cm. High-quality delenki have clearly visible buds on the sides. Irises can be planted from May to September, so planting material goes on mass sale in early spring. Wherever you buy irises, be sure to take a cutting in your hands and carefully examine the plant. Yellowing of a couple of outer leaves is quite acceptable, but if softened areas of the rhizome, mold or stains are found, you should refrain from purchasing.

Bearded irises are very sensitive to excess moisture. Humidity, especially in combination with heat, is destructive for planting material. Mature rhizomes are not afraid of drying and can be stored in a dry and cool place for up to 2 months. This feature has contributed to the wide dissemination of the culture of bearded irises, because delenki tolerate mailing well. Therefore, the most rational way to purchase planting material that is healthy and appropriate for the variety is to turn to collectors.

The largest association of iris lovers, as well as breeders and competent producers of planting material is the Russian Iris Society. Within the framework of this non-profit association of flower growers, exhibitions, training seminars, official registration of new varieties are held, and the purchase of planting material of Russian and foreign selection is coordinated. Anyone can become a member of the ROI; the association maintains an official website (http//rusiris.narod.ru) and annually publishes the newsletter “Irises of Russia” with an overview of the most significant events in the modern world of irises, articles on agricultural technology and breeding of these plants. Society address: 129110 Moscow, st. Gilyarovsky, 36-23.

What is important to take into account when purchasing planting material from private collections?

The level of collection maintenance is largely evidenced by the catalog - a list of proposed varieties with a description that informs you as much as possible about the properties of the variety. The variety class according to the height of the peduncle must be indicated. The name is followed by the surname of the breeder, the year of registration of the variety, a description of the color, features and awards received.
The times when one could mostly dream about new breeding products are over. Now we excitedly leaf through catalogs, jumping from site to site in search of interesting varieties. But the more choices, the more difficult it is to make. One “golden” rule will allow you to lay and maintain a strong foundation for your iris garden - first of all, choose award-winning varieties.
Collectors who value their reputation and circle of customers offer a system of discounts, bonuses, guarantees and order approvals, following the world practice of offering planting material. Including its unwritten law: the older the variety, the lower its price. The high cost of the newest varieties is explained not only by their outstanding decorative qualities, but also by the number of plants themselves. In irises new variety propagates only vegetatively, that is, by dividing one “original” plant obtained from a seed, therefore, by the time the variety is officially registered, the number of plants that bear it is small, and it is customary to charge the highest price for the right to own them. For reference: the price of the current year's varieties from the luminaries of American selection ranges from 30 to 50 dollars.

GROWING IRISES

Choosing a landing site

In order for flowering to be regular and abundant, the area for planting bearded irises must be as warm and light as possible, and when planting tall irises, it must be protected from the wind. Bearded irises do not tolerate excessive moisture, so flooded lowlands are not for them; in areas with high groundwater levels, planting is possible on raised ridges.

Soil preparation

The best soil for irises is light loam. Clay soils can be improved by adding sand and peat, acidic soils can be neutralized with dolomite flour, and sandy soils can be improved with clay and well-rotted compost. The soil under irises should have good water and air permeability. In the fight for porosity, all means are good - coarse sand, crushed brick, fine limestone, and charcoal will do.

Excess nitrogen reduces winter hardiness and increases the risk of bacterial infections, so organic additives (completely rotted compost or manure humus) can be added in small quantities to the lower layer of soil, to the depth of thin roots, avoiding contact with the thick rhizome.

To obtain large plants of exhibition quality (especially tall irises), planting is practiced on two-layer raised beds. The bottom layer of soil consists of compost with the addition of dolomite flour, mineral fertilizers long-acting or phosphorus-potassium complex, upper layer ridges (10-15 cm) - sand.

Planting

You can plant irises and replant them with a clod of earth from May to September, the best time is July, since at this time the active growth new roots. Planting young trees should begin with disinfection. To do this, it is enough to withstand them for 15-30 minutes. in a pink solution of potassium permanganate. If the weather is sunny, place the cuttings in the sun for several days so that the rhizome is illuminated from all sides. This “tanning” destroys pathogenic bacteria and promotes better survival and formation of flower buds.

Perennial rhizomes should remain on the soil surface when planting. Make a hole with a scoop, pour earth into a mound at the bottom (or best of all, a mixture of sand and wood ash). Hold the rhizome level with the soil surface, spread the roots along the sides of the mound, as if planting a tree astride the mound. Fill the hole by pressing the soil tightly around the roots with your hands. Water thoroughly to ensure the division does not fall over. There is no need to water the plantings anymore; it is important that all planted plants maintain a vertical position and the rhizome is not buried. The planted cuttings can be supported from the leaves with sticks or stones; after 2-3 weeks, new growing roots will provide the plant with correct contact with soil.

And the last step, optional but very forward-thinking, is to install a label with the name of the variety. A disposable plastic knife would work well as such a label. Write the name of the variety with a permanent marker and stick it next to the plant.

The taller the iris, the more space it needs. And the more often you plant irises, the sooner you will have to plant the plants. When planting irises in groups, it is advisable to place the plants at a distance from each other: for tall irises 30-40 cm, for medium-sized ones - 15-20, for dwarf ones - 10-15 cm. During the growth process, bearded irises move, the rhizome moves forward along the soil surface, therefore, when planting in a border, all cuttings should face one direction; it is better to orient the cut on the rhizome to the south-eastern sector, so the rhizome will be better illuminated and warmed up. When planting in nests, the divisions are placed with cuts towards the center.

CARE OF BEARDED IRISES

In the spring, after the snow melts, it may seem that the irises have died, but do not rush to conclusions. If the rhizome is hard, after 1-2 weeks the iris will turn lushly green. Treat the iris and the soil around it with ash or one of the fungicides. Wood ash for irises it is both a hygiene product and a fertilizer; it is applied several times a season.

Most often, the upper part of the rhizome with the flower bud freezes out. Cut the damaged area down to solid healthy tissue as soon as possible. Irises lay renewal buds on the sides of the rhizomes, so even a radically “operated” iris still has a chance of survival. Fresh cuts on the rhizome should always be disinfected. Here are the remedies from the extensive experience of practitioners; a mixture of sulfur and charcoal, brilliant green, fucorcin, potassium permanganate, metronidazole powder. Try to provide the rhizomes with maximum illumination, solar ultraviolet - the best remedy fight against bacteriosis.

The moisture requirement of bearded irises is covered by the amount of natural precipitation; they do not need regular watering; watering is desirable in dry summers for tall irises during the flowering period. In the non-chernozem zone, the development and winter hardiness of plants can be stimulated with the help of fertilizing. In spring, nitrogen-phosphorus (3:1), during budding - nitrogen-phosphorus-potassium (1:1:1), 2-3 weeks after flowering - phosphorus-potassium (1:1). Fertilizers are applied to moist soil, preventing granules from getting on the rhizome.
Prevention and protection against diseases

Basic care for irises comes down to disease prevention. The occurrence of rot caused by various types bacteria are promoted by dampness, excess organic matter, thickened plantings and long-term cultivation in one place. When a disease is detected, there is only one method of control: the affected part of the plant is cut out, the remaining part is treated with fungicidal agents (see above).

An effective measure for the prevention and control of rots of various origins is the introduction of live bacterial preparations (Trichodermin, Glyocladin) into the soil under irises, which suppress the development of pathogenic microorganisms. Spring sowing of annual green manure crops (white mustard, phacelia) in areas intended for summer planting of irises, followed by planting them to a depth of about 20 cm, will improve the soil and provide the irises with optimal nutrition.

In the second half of summer, brown spots and yellowing ends can be seen on the foliage of irises. Spots caused by various pathogens do not directly threaten the life of the plant, but they spoil the appearance and can affect winter hardiness. Help to keep the foliage healthy: regular preventive spraying of foliage with fungicides (foundazol, Maxim,

0.2% copper oxychloride), spacious planting, pre-winter pruning of leaves (and even subsequent whitewashing with lime).

Wintering

Irises of domestic selection and time-tested foreign varieties, which have been grown for quite a long time, are distinguished by the greatest winter hardiness. middle lane. For most irises, 30 cm of snow is sufficient protection from frost. The most vulnerable are the new items in the world selection of tall irises. The potential of their winter hardiness and methods of covering have to be established experimentally.

Most dwarf and medium-sized irises in gardens near Moscow can overwinter without shelter. In tall irises in November, before the cold weather, the rhizomes are covered with 8-10 cm of soil, and when the soil is frozen, they are covered with spruce branches or any breathable material.

The most reliable way to cover bearded irises is “dry wintering”.

In rainy autumn, a low, rigid canopy is installed over the irises so that the soil remains dry and the shelter is blown through. With the onset of the first frost, the foliage is cut off at a height of 10 cm, the plants are sprayed with fungicide and covered with lutrasil over the canopy.

A small number of plants can be covered with mesh plastic boxes and lutrasil or caps made of plastic containers with holes at the bottom. Any method that allows you to maintain air circulation under the shelter is good.

Many people consider them rustic, but in fact the bearded iris flower is very multifaceted - a magnificent collection of bearded irises will simply transform a summer flower garden in any area, making it unique and colorful. Thanks to the huge number garden varieties of this plant, everyone will be able to choose for themselves the flower that will ideally suit the purpose.

In this article, we will look at the features of growing bearded iris - the most popular species among gardeners, we will give a description of the varieties of this flower, and also note the basic rules on how to plant bearded iris and how to care for it.

Botanical description and features of bearded iris

Bearded iris is a perennial rhizomatous plant that belongs to the Iridaceae or Iridaceae family. These bright and unusual flowers can be found on almost all continents, so without false modesty, the bearded iris should be called an international flower. It's so unique flowers that it is difficult to even convey their beauty and main features. Bearded irises in nature can easily interbreed with each other and thereby create new vibrant varieties. It is this feature that has attracted breeders from all over the world and has made it possible to develop several tens of thousands of different varieties of bearded iris.

There are a large number of legends associated with the appearance of this flower on earth and the origin of its name. Iris is translated from Latin as “rainbow”. This was the name of the ancient Greek goddess of the rainbow, Iris, who was the link between the gods and people. She personified a beautiful and fragile girl with two delicate wings behind her back, ready to fly into the skies at the slightest call, sparkling with all the shades of the rainbow. In honor of this goddess, the irises flowers were named, which, like the smallest fragments of a rainbow, decorate fields and meadows. There is another legend about the appearance of this beautiful flower. She takes us back to the times of the reign of the gods and the appearance of Prometheus. At the moment when Prometheus gave fire to people, a rainbow flashed in the sky, which gave people light and joy all day, all evening and all night. This is how nature expressed its jubilation. And when the sun rose in the morning, there was no rainbow in the sky, but the whole earth was strewn with bright irises, which resembled fragments of a multi-colored rainbow.

The first mention of iris flowers was recorded 2000 years ago. The painted flower was discovered by archaeologists in the palace of Minos, and many years later the iris became a sacred and revered flower on the island of Cyprus. Now the bearded iris flower is a favorite flower not only of numerous breeders, for whom working with it is a pleasure, but also of millions of gardeners who appreciate its beauty and unpretentiousness.

Description of bearded iris:

Bearded iris is a perennial rhizomatous plant that is widespread throughout the world.
Today there is a rather complex classification of iris species, which is difficult for the average gardener to understand. Therefore, fans of this extraordinary flower group all varieties very simply: bearded and non-bearded. Bearded irises are the most popular variety, attracting gardeners with their bright colors and interesting shape of inflorescences.
The root system of bearded irises is superficial, sometimes emerging from the ground. It has many small thread-like roots. In appearance, it has several annual seals that spread and allow the plant to grow.
Every spring, an annual peduncle grows from the rhizome, on which flowers subsequently bloom.
The leaves of the bearded iris are long and flat, their shape can be sword-shaped or linear, very thin, covered with a waxy coating.
The leaves are arranged in two-row fan-shaped bunches at the very base of the peduncle. These are basal leaves. The stem leaves are small and there are very few of them.
The leaf color is light green.
By height, bearded plants are divided into several groups: dwarf - up to 35 cm high, intermedia - 40-75 cm high and tall bearded irises - up to 2 m high.
The main decoration of the bearded iris is its flowers, which amaze with their variety of shades and intricate shapes.
The flower consists of 6 petals, which are arranged in two tiers. Three of them rise up with a dome, and the other three are slightly lowered and bent down. The colors of the petals are often multi-colored: red-orange-yellow, blue-blue, purple-blue with white. Among all the variety of shades, there is not only pure red.
The name of the bearded iris variety comes from the small beard on the bent petals, which consists of small woolly hairs, often of a contrasting shade. Hence the name of this variety.
Bearded iris flowers can be single or collected in small inflorescences. A large bush can have about 10 flowers on one peduncle.
Flowering begins around the end of May or early June. One flower can bloom for 3-5 days.
Some varieties have a pleasant aroma, so they are often grown in industrial purposes to obtain essences for cosmetology.
After the flowers fade, fruits appear on the plant in the form of a three-lobed capsule.

Variety of bearded iris varieties

Irises have long been considered one of the most popular garden flowers, the variety of colors and shapes of which is simply amazing. The most popular are rightfully bearded irises, a group of which includes approximately 35,000 different varieties that differ in height, shape and size of inflorescences, and color. Today there is a very complex classification of types and varieties of irises, which is quite difficult for ordinary gardeners to understand. Many still spread it over the beard on the petals. Let's look at the description of the best bearded irises.

Beverly Hills variety. This is a tall bearded iris, the height of the peduncle can reach approximately 90 cm. The leaves of this flower are long and narrow, have a bright green tint. The bearded iris bush grows quickly. The flower is medium in size, its shade is coral pink with a reddish lace beard. The Beverly Hills variety begins flowering in early July.

Variety of bearded iris "Burgomaster". Another tall variety, the peduncle of which can reach a height of about 80 cm. The flower is medium in size, the petals along the edge are orange-violet, the inside is dark purple. Inside the flower, the petals are slightly yellowish in color with a pinkish tint.
Variety "Batik". This variety of bearded iris can reach a height of approximately 70-80 cm. The leaves are narrow and do not lose their bright green color until the end of summer. The flowers are quite large, up to 16-16 cm each. From the name of the variety it is clear that the color of the petals will be in the known artistic technique batik. Flower violet shade with a lot of white veins.

Variety "Summer Night". A beautiful, tall variety of bearded iris, which can reach a height of 80-90 cm. The flowers are medium-sized, bright purple with a yellow core. This variety of iris begins to bloom in early or mid-July. The flowers have a distinct aroma.
Variety of bearded iris “Starfall”. A tall variety of bearded iris, which can reach a height of 75-80 cm. The flowers are medium in size, their shade is light yellow with a bright orange beard.
Variety of bearded iris "Arkady Raikin". A tall iris with a bright, beautiful hue. The flowers are medium in size, the petals are pink-red in color with a contrasting orange beard. The flowers have a strong aroma.

Variety of bearded iris “Abkhazia”. These are medium-sized flowers that bloom late. The flowers are large, brownish-violet in color. The petals are strongly wavy along the edges and have many folds, making the flower appear fringed.
Variety of bearded iris “Gvardeisky”. This variety of bearded iris is considered one of the tallest and most fragrant, which will be an excellent decoration for any site. The flowers are large, reaching a diameter of about 15 cm, and have bright yellow petals.
Bearded iris variety "Elbrus Diamond". This variety of iris is also very popular among gardeners. A tall plant that can reach approximately 80-90 cm. The flowers are massive, white in color with a bright orange-yellow core and veins on the petals.
Variety "Carribian Dream". A medium-sized variety of bearded iris, which has a delicate vanilla aroma. The flowers are large and have bright blue petals.

Bearded iris variety 'Crown Heads'. This variety of iris is a real miracle of selection. The plants are of medium height, the middle of the flowers has a bright violet-blue hue, the outer petals are silver-blue. The flower has a wonderful aroma.
Variety "Midday in Rio". Beautiful variety bearded iris in bright purple tones. The petals of the flower are bright purple with a lacy wavy edge. The beard has a golden color.
Variety "Nain Lives". A dwarf variety of bearded iris, which can reach a height of about 25-35 cm. The central petals are creamy, the outer petals are dark red-burgundy with a wide light pink border and a central golden spot.

Propagation of bearded iris: common methods

Most often, planting material for bearded irises is purchased from specialized stores. However, if a beautiful bush of this plant still grows on your site bright flower, you can try to breed a lot of additional young plants. Several methods are suitable for this: seed propagation, vegetative propagation- dividing the rhizome, using the bud method. Let us consider in more detail the main nuances of each method of reproduction.

Seed propagation of bearded iris

Seed propagation is used extremely rarely, since in the process the plant completely loses its maternal characteristics.
First of all, you need to collect the seeds in the fall, and then decide on the sowing time.
To do this, seeds can be sown in autumn or spring. However, when spring planting seeds must undergo a stratification process.
The seeds must first be soaked and then dried. Next, they are mixed with clean coarse sand and placed in a container, after which they are placed in the refrigerator.
If you decide to sow directly immediately after collecting the seeds, be sure to prepare the soil in advance, dig it up and loosen it.
After this, place the seeds in the soil to a depth of approximately 1.5-2 cm.
Shoots will appear in the spring, but most of them emerge only in the second year after planting.

Propagation of bearded iris by dividing the rhizome

This propagation method is considered the most popular and frequently used, since every three years bearded iris bushes still need to be replanted due to loss of decorativeness.
You can begin the method of propagation by dividing the rhizome at the end of the iris' summer dormancy.
To do this, you can dig up the bush completely or separate sections immediately from the bush growing in the flowerbed.
The dug up rhizome must be washed under water and then divided into required amount division in such a way that each side has several healthy buds, a sufficient number of roots and a fan of leaves consisting of 5-7 leaves.
The fan of leaves is shortened to about 15 cm, the roots also need to be trimmed to 10-15 cm.
After this, the divisions are soaked in a weak solution of potassium permanganate, after which they must be allowed to dry in the sun.
The delenki are planted in a permanent place.
Irises planted using cuttings can bloom as early as next year.

Propagation of bearded iris by bud method

Sometimes gardeners resort to the bud method of propagating bearded irises. This is especially true in cases where there is an urgent need to breed rare varieties of bearded iris.
Each rhizome has axillary buds in the form of small tubercles.
It is necessary to cut the rhizome into several links with buds or cut out a bud with a knife.
After this, the resulting buds must be treated with a solution of potassium permanganate or other disinfectant and plant in containers or boxes for growing.
In this way you can get a large number of young plants at once.

Preparation before planting bearded iris

Bearded iris is one of the most popular flowers among gardeners, as this beautiful plant contains the beauty and brightness of its inflorescences and its ease of cultivation. However, like any other crop, bearded iris requires careful attention before planting. preparatory work, which consists of purchasing high-quality and healthy planting material and choosing the ideal place for planting on your site. Only after this you will get a beautiful and abundantly flowering plant.

Stage 1. Selecting varieties and seedlings of bearded iris

First of all, you need to decide on the choice of a specific variety of bearded iris. This is not easy to do, since today there are more than 35,000 varieties of this beautiful view plants.
Choose a variety of bearded iris depending on the planting location. Tall varieties can be purchased for the central part of the flower bed, and shorter varieties will look ideal as a border plant.
You should only buy iris cuttings in a specialized store or garden center; this is the only way to be sure of the quality of the purchased material. You can also take iris cuttings from friends at the moment when the bearded iris is being transplanted.
In stores, delenki are most often sold in transparent bags with filler, for example, sawdust.
Carefully inspect the division; it is better to choose large and healthy divisions that will take root and bloom faster.
The purchased division must have at least one link with buds and roots. The rhizome itself should be dense and elastic, without signs of rotting or softening. Yellowish spots should be clearly visible on it - signs of the appearance of future roots.
Delenka can be purchased at any time of the year, as this planting material is not afraid of drying out. The main thing is not to store it in a bag.

Stage 2. Choosing a place to plant bearded iris

Bearded iris is considered unpretentious culture and does not require the creation of special conditions for cultivation, however, to obtain a brightly blooming flower, it is important to choose the right place.
Bearded iris will grow well only in a sunny area; only slight shading is allowed in the afternoon.
You should not plant irises in the shade of trees or shrubs, as the rhizome of this plant does not tolerate any shade.
The place you choose should be protected from drafts and strong winds, as a strong gust can simply break the delicate flowers of the bearded iris.
It is best to plant irises on an inclined plane, as these flowers do not like stagnant moisture at the rhizome.

Stage 3. Selection and preparation of soil for bearded iris

To plant irises, it is important to find an area with a neutral or slightly acidic soil reaction. If there is none, then if the soil is strongly acidic, you can add lime, and if the soil is severe, peat and sand can be added.
The soil should be light and breathable; even rocky soil will do.
Bearded irises should not be planted on clay soils that retain moisture.
There should not be a large number of weeds on the soil, which can become carriers of diseases. Large amounts of organic matter are also very bad for flowers.
Before planting, carefully dig up the selected area and loosen the area well.

Planting bearded iris - instructions

Bearded iris is planted in the fall, when the roots of the plant become hard and dense and do not break.
Next, in a place prepared in advance, dig the required number of holes for planting, the size of which will depend on the size of the cuttings.
It is important to put a good layer of drainage at the bottom of each, since this plant does not tolerate prolonged stagnation of moisture at the roots. For drainage, you can use small stones, expanded clay or coarse, clean sand.
Next, in the center of the hole you need to pour a small mound of soil and place a section of bearded iris on it, and distribute all the roots around it.
After this, you need to sprinkle the roots of the iris with soil, and the rhizome itself is lightly covered with clean sand with a layer of about 1-2 cm.
If you plant cuttings in the fall, be sure to cover them with mulch to prevent them from freezing. At summer planting the plants will have time to take root.
After planting, the plants need to be watered.

Agricultural technology for growing bearded iris: secrets and nuances of care

Pretty bearded irises unpretentious plants However, despite this, they constantly need regular and close care, which should consist of basic actions familiar to every gardener. Proper care of bearded irises will ensure beautiful, brightly flowering plants.

Watering. Bearded irises have the ability to accumulate moisture in their rhizomes, so they can go without watering for a long time. Applying water to the roots of these plants is only necessary in extreme heat and obvious drying of the soil. Young cuttings also need plenty of soil moisture.
Loosening and weeding. Irises also need regular loosening. however, it is important to remember here that the root system of this plant is superficial, and the tuber can generally be located on the surface. Therefore, you need to loosen it very carefully, trying not to damage the tuber, which will have difficulty recovering. It is important to constantly remove weeds that can become a source of disease.
Feeding. Bearded irises respond well to fertilizing, but it is necessary to choose fertilizers with a minimum nitrogen content, and also apply less organic matter. Usually the plant is fed three times per season. The first feeding is done in the spring before flowering begins - around the end of April. In this case, you can use sodium nitrate. The second feeding is carried out during the budding period, when ammonium sulfate can be used as a fertilizer. The third feeding is recommended two weeks after flowering. At this time, you can feed the irises with phosphorus and potassium fertilizers.
Transplanting irises. A few years after planting, the plant’s rhizome begins to grow, and the central part becomes lifeless. In this case, it is recommended to transplant the bearded iris, since the flower loses its decorative effect, the peduncles become shorter and the flowers become smaller. It is recommended to replant irises every 3-4 years. Dwarf forms of bearded iris can be replanted less frequently, as they can grow in one place for up to 10 years.
Trimming. After the iris has faded, its flower stalks must be cut off, and before the onset of winter, the leaves of the plant are also cut off at a height of 10-15 cm.
Shelter for the winter. Russian varieties of bearded iris can overwinter without shelter. however, more delicate imported varieties are still worth covering. To do this, the soil is mounded with peat and covered with fallen leaves, preferably oak leaves, since rodents do not live in it. After this, the plants are covered with spruce branches.

Bearded irises - photo

Bearded irises are the most popular members of their family and have long been favorites of many gardeners. These luxurious flowers bright colors can replace a whole flower bed of other flowering plants, and will not require additional effort or expense from you.