The iris, also commonly referred to as sword lily, is one of the oldest flowering plants cultivated in horticulture in Europe. The plant with the decoratively shaped flower can also be propagated relatively easily by laypeople.

Irises are best propagated by dividing the rhizomes

The right time for the propagation of the iris

The iris generally forms new roots on its rhizomes in the period after flowering. Therefore, when propagating by division, you should choose the time immediately after flowering to dig up the plants. In principle, you can also grow the iris from seeds, but this requires some patience. After all, after sowing the iris seeds, it can take up to three or four years before the first flowers can be seen on the plants.

Propagation and pruning of the iris to ensure flowering

Propagation by division is also more practicable for the iris than growing from seeds, since the iris crusts have to be dug up and rejuvenated every three to four years anyway. If this care measure is omitted, the iris blossoms may decrease or not appear at all. As part of the division, you should also shorten the roots and leaves accordingly. This also stimulates the growth of new roots and promotes growth in the new location.

The correct procedure for propagating and transplanting

When propagating the iris by division, the following steps are particularly important:

  • digging up with a spade or a digging fork
  • dividing the rhizomes with a clean, sharp knife
  • cutting off old roots
  • careful planting at the correct planting depth

When dividing in autumn, cut, fine roots are soon reproduced fresh on the bulbous rhizomes. Place the divided specimens in soil that is as loose as possible and make sure that the planting depth is not too deep. The rhizomes should protrude slightly above the ground if possible. The roots are washed around with soil by generous watering.

tips and tricks

If necessary, you can also divide and multiply the irises in spring. But then your irises may not bloom again until the following year.

Category:

Vegetable garden