Re: Pot Culture (no, it's not what you think!)
- To: Multiple recipients of list <i*@rt66.com>
- Subject: Re: Pot Culture (no, it's not what you think!)
- From: "* A* M* <w*@Ra.MsState.Edu>
- Date: Wed, 18 Feb 1998 16:27:29 -0700 (MST)
On Wed, 18 Feb 1998, Bill Shear wrote:
What gives? What are the circumstances under
> which YOU would pot up an iris?
>
> Bill Shear
> Department of Biology
I have responded to a question like this before, and way back
there in the AIS Bulletin (now, where is that index?), there was an
article and pictures on "Irises Going to Pot." This article was devoted
strictly to TB's as I remember. The Mallorn Archives can tell the full
story about what was discussed earlier on Iris-l. However, a few reasons
for potting TB's upon arrival are as follows.
The soil temperature in the South is too hot for root growth when
the big shippers send out orders in July and August.
Summer rains falling on hot soil and collecting in the 'goiter'
necks of Oregon grown plants are caldrons for rot.
Potting and placing in the shade in the torrid South will result
in rapid growth with the roots coming out of the drainage holes by
September planting time, thus anchoring the plant and preventing heaving
during the winter. Bloom on potted plants can be guaranteed the first year
if Mother Nature doesn't send a late freeze.
Please don't advise accepting late orders from the big shippers.
Even though an order might be placed right now with late August or
September delivery, there will be substitutes without permission.
This was also discussed last year and should be in the archives.
I have never over-wintered any iris in a pot.
Walter Moores
Enid Lake, MS 7/8 (a potter with 375 4" pots)
