CULT:Fertilization (Was Iris Myths)

From: StorYlade@aol.com

In a message dated 01/22/2000 5:06:20 AM Central Standard Time, 
Irisborer@aol.com writes:

<<   I have never had more robust and glorious irises, 
 nor have I suffered any rot whatsoever.  
 
 I DO hasten to add that this bed is the only one in my entire garden that 
 enjoys a southern exposure and it is also raised. >>

Do people still raise irises in anything other than raised beds?!! No! No! 
Say it isn't so!  (Except in sand, of course.) Two much fertilizer, organic 
or chemical, + prolonged dampness = rot.  (Only my . 02 based on personal 
experience.)  Dampness alone can do it, but the rate of rot increases with 
over-fertilization.  My first round of rot met with this observation from 
more experienced growers in Region 7, "The prettiest iris beds have the most 
rot."  Why?  Fertilizer.  I've seen new growers/show bench enthusiasts 
introduce so much rot in their beds that they were forced to abandon entire 
sections of their garden.  

I've been told this is the problem with many of the convention gardens.  Too 
much TLC.  In an effort to have a spectacular national showing, they 
over-fertilize.  

My most successful/prettiest/longest lasting iris bed was prepared slowly. 
The bed was on the west side of the house and several large trees were in the 
yard.  Sun light varied from full to dappled depending on the time of day and 
season.  Organic material, ashes, maple leaves (raw material), and compost, 
was on hand and was tilled into the bed area. Everything was watered well and 
left alone for 3 weeks or so.  When the area was covered with new weed and 
grass growth it was tilled again, and watered again.  Another 3 week wait and 
another tilling took place.  Then, the bed was formed and the iris planted.  
The process took over six week, but the bed produced great irises for about 5 
years.  No rot.  Of course, the irises were thinned occasionally.  

Betty from Bowling Green, KY--What is this white stuff, falling from the sky?


--------------------------- ONElist Sponsor ----------------------------

Want to send money instantly to anyone, anywhere, anytime?
You can today at X.com - and we'll give you $20 to try it.  Sign
up today at X.com.  It's quick, free, & there's no obligation.
<a href=" http://clickme.onelist.com/ad/xcom ">Click Here</a>

------------------------------------------------------------------------
Other Mailing lists | Author Index | Date Index | Subject Index | Thread Index