Re: CULT: iris companion plants

In a message dated 12/30/04 8:33:52 AM Eastern Standard Time, 
lmann@volfirst.net writes:

<< Depending on soil, climate, and care, many cultivars (may?) do better
 without companions, but might not be affected too badly by companions.
 Just have to try it and see. >>

And, there is, of course, a difference between a planned grouping of 
carefully considered companion plants, or a managed crop of site-specific volunteers 
and a heavy outcropping of seedlings of notoriously vigorous self-seeding 
perennials. I think he should remove most if not all of those composite seedlings 
right now while the getting is good. 

A mixed bed of Irises and perennials or annuals can be achieved with proper 
planning. Proper planning means that everything has generous space, that only 
those companions are included which have the same cultural requirements as the 
Irises, which do not grow to crowd, smother, or overshadow the Irises, which 
can tolerate the periodic upheaval of resetting the Irises, and which do not 
harbor pests injurious to the Irises, or make a lot of drifting mess or fruit, 
or impede good air circulation. Such a project would take a good deal of 
thought and horticultural expertise, and the planting would probably require a 
generous amount of space and time, for although it would, at least in theory, 
probably be healthier overall due to the plant diversity, it would also be highly 
labor intensive to maintain. 

Still, there are some options for a smaller bed under the care of an engaged 
gardener. Columbines are a Iris classic companion for spring, and I am 
experimenting with overseeding other delicate plants among the bearded Irises this 
season. I have lined their bed with pansies and violas in bright pastel colors, 
and I have broadcast a few seeds of Shirley poppies and white flowered 
nigella. Later in the season when the Irises have finished I may sow Verbena 
bonariensis, for the butterflies. 

Cordially,

Anner Whitehead
Richmond VA USA
USDA Zone 7

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