Iris reticulata; is one of the daintiest and most colourful of the Iris family.
Some varieties are scented.
The 100-125mm diameter flowers grow to around 200mm-450mm high (8”-18") depending upon variety.
They are the first of the hybrids to flower; they flower from early April to mid June.
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They will thrive in either full sun or partial shade, in moist soil ranging in pH from 5 -7½.
Remove the seedpods after flowering to help the bulbs recover.
reticulata irises may be grown in pots.
The pots should never he brought in from the greenhouse until the buds show colour.
Cultivation;
Week 26; Increase by division after the foliage has died down.
Most bulbs split into two naturally, with a number of smaller offsets.
The largest bulbs will flower the following year, but the smaller offsets should be set aside and grown to maturity in a nursery bed or pots.
Week 37>; Plant the bulbs in a sunny, well-drained soil.
Plant the bulbs of dwarf varieties 50mm (2") deep and 100mm (4") apart, and 300mm (12") apart for larger types.
After planting, feed with a high phosphorous fertiliser to encourage large bulbs to form.
Give some winter protection if in an exposed site. e.g. cloches.
Bulbs may be left in the ground after foliage dies down, but in wet heavy soils it is advisable to lift and store the bulbs until planting out time.
