These graceful perennials may appear fragile, but theyre actually quite tough in nature. It is critical to transplant every 3 to 4 years. Japanese Iris Architecturally exquisite and stunningly colorful, Japanese Iris bring an air of elegance wherever theyre planted. New roots form above the old roots each year forcing the crown up and out of the soil. Dig and divide your plants every 3 to 4 years to maintain plant vigor. Japanese iris can be transplanted almost anytime from spring until fall if you keep the plant wet, and the temperatures are below 90 F and above 32 F for a month afterwards. Do not apply fertilizers to new transplants. Most soils with heavy watering will usually need more nitrogen applied. Depending on your soil a liberal application of balanced fertilizer for acid loving plants (Rhododendron, Camellia) in the spring just before or after bloom is beneficial. In hot climate, some afternoon shade will benefit the bloom. These plants like full sun, with a minimum of 6 hours to bloom properly. The crown of the plant needs to be above the water line. They do very well near water, as this is where they naturally grow, or where the water table is high. Wet in the spring and keep moist all summer. Constant moisture will reward you with healthy plants and larger blooms. Also, do not fertilize newly planted or transplanted Japanese iris as this can burn the roots. Japanese irises are not bog plants in northern zones (zones 3-6) mainly due to the fact that if water freezes over the top of the crowns the plants may. Do not use bone meal or lime, as this will raise the soil pH too much and can kill Japanese irises. The soil pH should be slightly acid, ideally between 5.5 to 6.5. An addition of well aged manure and compost will help in water retention as well as adding nutrients. Japanese irises prefer a rich, loose soil with ample organic matter. Expect your best bloom on 2 and 3 year old plants. The roots produce a substance in soil that ultimately inhibits the plant’s growth, as well as the growth of other iris species. New transplants may not bloom the first year. Japanese iris have one characteristic that is somewhat unusual. Depending on your soils and weather a daily watering may be needed for the first week or two. Water in well to start the root development, do not let new transplant dry out. Give a good 18 to 24 inch spacing between different rhizomes. Plant individual rhizomes 2-3 inches deep, 6 to 8 inches apart. Newly received plants that are bare root should be soaked in cool water for a few hours or overnight. More refined and less conspicuous than the Tall Bearded. Demanding in their needs but if met they will reward you with tall robust plants and larger blooms. Native to Japan, Japanese Irises (Iris ensata) are among the most elegant and breathtaking Irises. Perhaps no other iris is as influenced by good culture as Japanese iris, properly known as Iris ensata.
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