Re: Nutrition and Soil

ShoreHouse@aol.com wrote:
> 
> I sure could use some help.
> I live in the northern California are with a clay soil which I have improved
> but which I am not sure I have improved correctly.  I have TBs, Louisiana,
> Spuria, Pacifica, and Dwarf bearded iris.  I am new to this and have some
> questions about ideal soil ph and fertilizers.  Is it correct that louisiana,
> pacificas and spurias prefer acid soil?  what is the best pre  bloom
> nutrition to add for the tb's? for the louisiana? spuria? pacificas? and
> dwarfs?  What is the best fertizier for after bloom use (now) for each?  I
> sure would appreciate some help. thanks
> shorehouse@aol.com
Hi, you didn't mention where in Northern California you lived, but let
me give you some comments from San Jose.  First, the only iris that
really need acidic soil (in my opinion) are Siberian.  The other iris do
well with a neutral pH.  All iris like humus added and they like light
airy soil that is not compacted.  We recommend balanced fertilizer in
January or February at the start of growth and a top dressing in the
summer.  We recommend a balanced mix perhaps 10-10-10 or so.  Spurias
like lots of heat and dry summers.  Dwarfs like a nice winter dormancy
and PCN's are quite temperamental depending on your own micro-climate. 
Louisiana's will tolerate some acidity and will grow best in a semi-bog
location with full sun or very lightly filtered sun.
Hope this helps.
Bill Maryott
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