Re: Starting from seeds
- To: Multiple recipients of list <i*@rt66.com>
- Subject: Re: Starting from seeds
- From: R* T* D* <r*@sierratel.com>
- Date: Mon, 28 Jul 1997 00:51:10 -0600 (MDT)
Sing7178@aol.com wrote:
>
> How do you start iris from seed? I see my iris now have seed pods. Do I let
> them completely dry??? Or what?
>
> Any information would be appreciated. I also heard that the seeds do not
> produce the same plant that they came from is that true?
>
> Thanks
>
> Gayla
> Peoria Illinois........It is so hot today I will have to stay in the pool to
> stay outside!
Gayla,
Now I know who you are and where you live. When shipping rhizomes first
trim the foilage to about 6 inches. Everyone likes to see a nice clean
rhizome so wash the rhizome. A hose with a nozzle it fine. After
washing, hold the rhizome firmly in your hand upside down and flick the
iris fan towards the ground (don't let it go). This will get most of
the excess moisture out of the leaves. As you stated, place them is a
shady location, upside down with the plant balanced on it's toe. This
will let anymore moisture drain away. I would think that in your area a
few days like this would be sufficient before mailing.
As for your seeds, harvest them just before the seed pod turns brown.
You will probably notice it start to crack near the top. Hold the seed
until the fall and plant in pots (in a sterlized potting mix such as
Super Soil). Iris seeds do not all germinate in one year so if you
plant them in the ground they may come up for years.
You will have more control if you plant them in pots. Transplant the
seedlings in the spring when the weather settles.
If I missed anything someone else chime in.
Rick Tasco
Superstition Iris Gardens
Central California
Zone 8
