Iris Iris 'Big Money' (CH)

Water

Tall Bearded Iris prefers to be watered deeply and infrequently to encourage deep root development; this means watering to a depth of about 8-10 inches. During the growing season, water once a week if there has been no significant rainfall, particularly when the plant is establishing itself or during extended dry periods. Cut back on watering once the plant goes dormant, usually after flowering or in the fall. Depending on the weather conditions, if it's particularly hot and dry, you may need to water more frequently. As a general rule, you might use about 1 gallon of water per plant each week during active growth periods.

Light

Tall Bearded Iris thrives best in full sunlight, requiring at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. Position the Iris 'Big Money' in a spot that ensures maximum light exposure throughout the day to promote robust growth and optimal flowering. Partial shade may be tolerated, but too much shade can result in fewer blooms and an increased risk of disease.

Temperature

Tall Bearded Iris is hardy and can withstand a range of temperatures but it grows best when temperatures are between 55°F and 75°F. This plant can survive winter temperatures well below freezing, down to -20°F, but should be protected from the extreme cold. During the summer months, heat over 90°F may stress the plant but it generally tolerates hot conditions well.

Pruning

For Tall Bearded Iris, pruning, more correctly called "deadheading," involves removing spent flowers to encourage further blooms and prevent the plant from putting energy into seed production. After blooming, cut the flower stalks down at their base. In late fall, prune the foliage down to about 6 inches to reduce overwintering pests and diseases. Pruning is also done to remove any brown or damaged leaves during the growing season.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

The best soil mix for Tall Bearded Iris 'Big Money' is well-draining, loamy soil enriched with organic matter. The ideal soil pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 6.8 to 7.0. Ensure excellent drainage to prevent root rot since these irises are particularly sensitive to waterlogged soil.

Repotting

Tall Bearded Iris 'Big Money' typically doesn't require frequent repotting. These perennials should be divided and repotted every 3 to 4 years to avoid overcrowding and to rejuvenate their growth. It is best done shortly after flowering, in late summer.

Humidity & Misting

Tall Bearded Iris 'Big Money' thrives best in outdoor humidity levels. They do not require high humidity; average ambient outdoor levels are sufficient. They are well-adapted to the humidity found in most temperate climates where they are commonly grown.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Ensure full sun, well-draining soil, and dry to touch before watering.

• Outdoor

  Plant in full sun, well-drained soil, and space rhizomes out.

• Hardiness zone

  3-9 USDA

Life cycle

The life of an Iris 'Big Money' typically starts with seed germination, where the plant begins its life as a seedling emerging from the soil in the appropriate conditions of moisture and temperature. As it grows, it develops roots and foliage, reaching the vegetative stage where it is characterized by long, sword-like leaves that form a dense clump. With maturity, Iris 'Big Money' enters the flowering stage in late spring to early summer, producing vibrant yellow to gold blooms that are a hallmark of this cultivar. After the blooming period, the flowers fade and seed pods may form if pollination has occurred, containing seeds that can be dispersed to give rise to new plants. As the growing season ends and temperatures drop, the plant enters dormancy, especially in colder climates, with foliage dying back to conserve energy. The cycle begins anew with the return of warmer weather, breaking dormancy as the Iris 'Big Money' resumes growth and prepares to flower again.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• The most popular method of propagation for the plant Iris 'Big Money', commonly known as bearded iris, involves dividing the rhizomes. This is usually done in late summer to early fall, after the flowering has finished and before the cold season starts. Gardeners typically lift the clump of irises out of the ground and gently shake off the soil to reveal the rhizomes and roots. Using a sharp knife, the rhizomes are cut into sections, making sure each section has at least one fan of leaves and healthy roots. The leaves are often trimmed down to about a third of their height, approximately 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 cm), to reduce water loss and make handling easier. The newly divided rhizomes are then replanted in well-draining soil, spaced about 12 to 24 inches (30 to 61 cm) apart to allow room for growth. It's important to plant them at the correct depth, with the top of the rhizome slightly exposed, ensuring rapid establishment and preventing rot.