Irises are a popular choice for landscape designers due to their reliable color in late spring and their structure throughout the season. The Germanic iris is one of the most beloved species and is often what gardeners think of when they see lilies in seed catalogs. Planting iris bulbs is easy, but it's important to know when to do it for best results. For vibrant colored flowers, it's best to plant iris bulbs between late summer and early fall.
This will ensure that spring blooms will occur. Make sure the area gets at least half a day of full sun or a full day of sun for more vibrant colors. It's also important to provide good drainage for the iris bulbs to prevent them from getting wet with their feet. Cutting the flower stem before the winter season can also help prevent the flower from rotting if it dies due to extreme cold.
When planting irises, it's best to wait until late summer when the plant isn't actively growing. Dig a trench with a garden tractor, place the iris bulbs in the trench, and cover them with soil. If the buds of peonies are too protected and deep, they may not accumulate their need for cooling and will not bloom. Gardeners who are new to planting irises can rest assured that these perennials are easy to grow.
With proper planting and care, you can have a lush garden with healthy lilies that will bring beauty and color to your landscape.