Re: TB: Question re Cutting Down Spent Bloom Stalks

In a message dated 5/1/2005 11:49:07 AM Central Daylight Time, 
Matbeach1@aol.com writes:


> If someone has advice, I would appreciate it.
> 

I operate somewhat differently from many growing irises.  But, also like 
many, my greatest nemesis with irises is bacterial soft rot. For this reason I 
avoid breaking or cutting stalks at their base near the rhizome. I do not want to 
create a wound near the ground that can provide an entry point for diseases.

Garden tidiness is not an issue with me so often enough stalks are left to 
die and wither naturally. When I do choose to remove them, I cut the stalk off 
just below the foliage top so they do not show, leaving the lower portion to 
wither naturally.

I can't say with certainty that I have either more of less rot from either of 
my approaches than I have breaking stalks at the base. I can only say that I 
have less work. I can say with certainty, I like less work.

Smiles,
Bill Burleson

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