Iris 'Clara Garland' Iris 'Clara Garland' (IB)

Water

Intermediate Bearded Iris should be watered deeply but infrequently to encourage deep rooting. Allow the soil to dry out somewhat between waterings, aiming for about one inch of water per week, either through rainfall or manual watering. During the active growing season, especially in the absence of rain, you may need to water every 5 to 7 days. It is essential to avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. Water at the base of the plants to keep the foliage dry and prevent disease.

Light

Intermediate Bearded Iris thrives in full sun, requiring at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. The best spot for these irises would be in an area that receives unfiltered sunlight for the majority of the day. Avoid placing them in heavily shaded areas, as too little light can reduce blooming and weaken the plant.

Temperature

Intermediate Bearded Iris performs best in temperature ranges from 35°F to 90°F. They can survive brief periods of colder temperatures down to around 10°F but are not tolerant of prolonged freezing conditions. Ideal growing temperatures are between 55°F and 75°F. These irises generally enjoy the temperature conditions found in temperate climates.

Pruning

Prune Intermediate Bearded Iris by removing spent flower stems at their base after blooming to maintain plant vigor and appearance. In late summer or early fall, cut back the foliage to about 6 inches to prepare the plant for winter and remove any diseased or damaged leaves. Pruning is also essential to remove old foliage before new growth in spring.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Intermediate Bearded Iris, commonly known as Iris 'Clara Garland', thrives best in well-draining soil with a pH of 6.8 to 7.0. A good soil mix for this Iris would include loam, compost, and coarse sand to ensure proper drainage. It's essential not to let the soil become too wet to prevent rhizome rot.

Repotting

Intermediate Bearded Iris, often referred to as Iris 'Clara Garland', typically does not need frequent repotting. Instead, these Irises should be divided every 3-4 years to maintain vigor and bloom quality. Repot only when the clumps become overcrowded or when the center of the clump shows a decline in performance.

Humidity & Misting

Intermediate Bearded Iris 'Clara Garland' is tolerant of a range of humidity levels and does not require high humidity to thrive. It is more important to focus on soil moisture rather than the surrounding humidity, ensuring the rhizomes do not stay too moist which can lead to rot.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Ensure full sun, good airflow, minimal watering for Intermediate Bearded Iris.

• Outdoor

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

• Hardiness zone

  3-9 USDA

Life cycle

The Iris 'Clara Garland' (IB), commonly known as an Intermediate Bearded Iris, begins its life as a seed, usually requiring stratification to break dormancy before germination can occur. Upon germination, the seedling develops a small rhizome, from which roots and leaves will emerge. As the rhizome matures, the plant develops long, sword-shaped leaves and a strong root system, entering its vegetative growth stage. The Iris reaches reproductive maturity within a few years and will produce showy flowers typically in late spring to early summer, after which it enters a period of dormancy during the hotter summer months. Once the plant has bloomed, it will set seed if pollinated, but many gardeners divide the rhizomes to propagate new plants and maintain vigor. The plant completes its life cycle when it either dies from environmental conditions or age, or when it is divided and the rhizomes are replanted, giving rise to the next generation of Iris 'Clara Garland'.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• Iris 'Clara Garland', commonly known as Intermediate Bearded Iris, can be propagated through division, which is the most popular method. This process is best undertaken in late summer after the blooms have faded and the foliage has begun to die back. To propagate by division, carefully dig up the iris clump and gently separate the rhizomes, ensuring that each division has at least one fan of leaves and healthy roots. Trim the leaves to about one-third of their height, which is approximately 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters), to reduce transpiration and make handling easier. Finally, replant the divisions at the same depth they were growing before, spacing them about 12 to 24 inches (30 to 60 centimeters) apart to provide adequate room for growth.