Iris leaves form fan shaped clumps that grow from thick, tuberous roots called rhizomes. The rhizomes, which grow just below ground level, store food for the plant and are the reason for the plant's hardiness and ease of growth. Bearded Iris grows in US Department of Agriculture hardiness zones 3 to 10, which is nearly everywhere in the continental US and southern Canada.

The plants grow in any soil as long as it is not too soggy. It can stand drought that would kill about any other common garden plant. Survive, however doesn't mean prosper or look good. The real glory of the Iris is when it is well tended and grows in rich soil.

The plant has beautiful large flowers in the spring. It can also surprise the gardener by occasionally blooming again in the fall if conditions are right.

Plant breeders have developed varieties known as "rebloomers" that are considered more likely to rebloom, but none can be guaranteed. More good news is that iris comes in many colors. Purple, white, blue, yellow, and two tone, nearly any color except pure red. Different varieties grow from 1 to 3 feet in height.

Gardeners buy the rhizomes during the growing season and plant them immediately just below the surface. They are planted the same depth they were growing, usually with the rhizome about three inches below the surface and nearly parallel to it.

As the clump spreads, the center may not bloom as vigorously. Clumps are usually divided about every three years to keep them vigorous.

Harsh winter weather can cause some damage to the leaves. Cut damaged fans back in the spring, new ones will soon grow.

Few diseases bother the plant but Iris borers can eat up the roots. Cut away any rhizome that looks diseased or rotten. Let it dry out of the ground for a day or two then replant the healthy root and fan.

 Iris are soooo... easy. I once worked in the oilfields of Oklahoma, Texas, and Kansas. On several occasions, I noticed old rural home sites that had been abandoned for years but had bearded iris still growing in the yards, sometimes even after the house was gone. You can't get find any easier.

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