Iris is Greek for Rainbow so it’ll be no surprise that this beautiful flower is available in a huge array of colors . Perhaps the most popular color for Iris is purple but you’ll find them also available in shades ranging from simple white to yellow through to pink. Iris are renowned for their beautiful flowers and architectural foliage which alone is enough to make them truly garden worthy plants. There is an iris available to suit most planting schemes, situations or soil and our selection is almost certain to demonstrate this.

How to grow

Irises are very easy and tolerant plants to grow. Each species will have its own requirements, however, in following a few simple instructions you will ensure your irises get the best start possible. When you receive your plants you should aim to have them in their final positions as soon as possible. If you cannot plant your irises immediately they should be stored in a cool and well ventilated space for a limited time.

Position

Irises enjoy a sunny position and do best when receiving the maximum sunlight possible. A south facing garden will suit irises well. As small to medium plants they can be added the front or middles of borders and many species will develop substantial clumps in 2-3 years.

Soil

Many Iris prefer damp soils and will often be seen in gardens around ponds or in a damp corner although they do tend to prefer a sunny position. You can improve drainage by adding plenty of organic matter to soil, such as well-rotted garden compost or multi-purpose compost. This will not only open up the soil structure but it will help to retain an adequate amount of required moisture. To further improve soil you should incorporate horticultural grit or sand. Most Irises grow best on a neutral or  alkaline soil and you can test the pH of your soil with a soil testing kit. If your soil is on the acidic side it can be improved by adding garden lime.

Care

Irises will require little specialist attention in terms of care after planting.  When placing your bulbs you can incorporate a general fertilizer in to the planting hole and again this should be applied throughout the growing season to aid with growth. Regular watering in warmer months may be necessary and faded blooms should be removed and added to the compost heap.  

Top Tip

Keep a watchful eye for plant pests.  Slugs and snails often eat leaves as well as tubers and bulbs that can breach the soil surface.