Re: Introduction
- To: Multiple recipients of list <i*@rt66.com>
- Subject: Re: Introduction
- From: "* a* C* W* <c*@digitalpla.net>
- Date: Sat, 25 Apr 1998 21:37:46 -0600 (MDT)
Kelly Lipp writes:
> My wife and I garden in Colorado Springs CO and are
> interested in adding iris to our various gardens. Specifically, we're
> interested in non-bearded iris, preferably, since we live in Colorado,
> types that don't require "wet feet."
Kelly,
I agree with Mark Cook that Spuria irises are the most logical choice among
the widely hybridized beardless types for the conditions you specify.
Spurias appreciate a fertile soil and adequate moisture through bloom
season, which occurs after the tall-bearded bloom (latter half of June into
early July here). During the rest of the summer they prefer to be on the
dry side. In hot climates the foliage may die back completely, but that
does not happen here. Spurias are usually transplanted when new root growth
begins to occur at the end of summer. Like most beardless iris they resent
being disturbed more than the bearded iris do, and are slower to
reestablish after transplanting. Don't expect really good bloom until the
second or third year. On the other hand, they don't have to be dug and
divided as frequently as the bearded iris and can remain in place for five
to seven years, depending on how rapidly they increase.
The other beardless type I would suggest is Siberians. They do not require
"wet feet" , but they must be provided with evenly moist soil as would be
found in a non-xeric mixed perennial border all through the growing season.
I have had success with both types here, although perhaps the Siberians
have performed somewhat better, which seems a bit counterintuitive (i.e.,
our natural conditions appear more suited to the requirements of Spurias
than Siberians). Maybe it is because I know the Sibes need some extra
attention and tend to leave the Spurias to fend for themselves.
Welcome to the list! Do you have any plans to participate in the AIS
National Convention in Denver the first week of June?
Jeff Walters in northern Utah (USDA Zone 4, Sunset Zone 2)
cwalters@digitalpla.net
