Bearded Iris Iris 'Cranapple' (BB)

Water

Bearded Irises like the 'Cranapple' variety should be watered thoroughly but infrequently to encourage deep root growth and prevent rot. Generally, they require watering every 7 to 10 days during the growing season if there is no significant rainfall, adjusting for particularly hot or dry weather. The soil should be allowed to dry out somewhat between waterings. When watering, aim for about one inch of water per week, which equates to about 0.6 gallons per square foot. It's best to water in the morning to allow moisture on leaves to evaporate during the day.

Light

Bearded Iris 'Cranapple' thrives in full sunlight where they can receive at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sun daily. They perform best when planted in a spot that receives morning sunlight, which helps dry the dew from their foliage and reduces the risk of disease. Bearded Irises can tolerate partial shade, but too much shade will lead to fewer blooms. A Southern or Western exposure is ideal to ensure adequate light exposure for vigorous growth and a robust flowering season.

Temperature

Bearded Iris 'Cranapple' is hardy and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, thriving in areas where the temperature falls between 35°F and 85°F. They can survive winter lows down to -30°F and summer highs up to 90°F without significant damage. The ideal growth temperatures for this iris are between 55°F and 75°F, where they can develop strong root systems and produce vibrant blooms. Adequate winter chilling is necessary for successful blooming in the spring.

Pruning

Prune Bearded Iris 'Cranapple' by removing any spent flower stalks to encourage healthy growth and potentially more blooms. After flowering, cut back the stalks to the base of the plant. In late fall, trim the leaves to about 4 to 6 inches above the ground to prepare for winter and reduce the risk of disease. Division and pruning of the rhizomes are best done every 3 to 5 years, typically after the summer bloom, to rejuvenate the plant and improve air circulation.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Bearded Iris 'Cranapple' prefers well-draining soil with a pH of 6.8 to 7.0. A soil mix of loamy soil enriched with compost and some sand for improved drainage works best for this plant. Keep the rhizomes partially exposed to prevent rot.

Repotting

Bearded Iris 'Cranapple' does not need frequent repotting; it is typically divided and replanted every 3 to 5 years to prevent overcrowding and to rejuvenate growth.

Humidity & Misting

Bearded Iris 'Cranapple' is tolerant of a wide range of humidity levels but prefers drier conditions. It does not require high humidity to thrive.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place in bright light, limit water, and provide cool temps.

• Outdoor

  Full sun, well-drained soil, water sparingly.

• Hardiness zone

  3-9 USDA

Life cycle

The Cranapple Bearded Iris (Iris 'Cranapple' BB) begins its life cycle with seed germination, which occurs once the seeds are exposed to soil and moisture conditions favorable for growth. Upon germinating, the plant develops roots and a primary shoot that emerges above the soil, commencing the vegetative stage where foliage growth is prioritized. As the plant matures, it develops the characteristic fan of sword-like leaves and a strong rhizome below ground from which new growth can emerge. The Iris 'Cranapple' enters its reproductive phase in late spring to early summer when it blooms, showcasing its striking cranberry-pink blossoms that attract pollinators. After the blooming period, the flowers will wither, and if pollination has occurred, seed pods may develop that will eventually dry and release seeds, completing the cycle. During the late fall or winter, the Iris 'Cranapple' enters a period of dormancy, retracting resources to its rhizome to survive adverse conditions until the next growth cycle begins.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring to summer

• The most popular method for propagating Iris 'Cranapple', a type of Bearded Iris, is by division. This process is ideally done late in the summer after the blooming period is over, typically between July and September. To propagate by division, carefully dig up the iris clumps and wash the soil off the rhizomes. Look for healthy sections of rhizomes with at least one fan of leaves. Cut these sections off with a sharp knife, ensuring each division is about 3 to 4 inches (approximately 7.6 to 10.2 centimeters) in length. Trim the leaves to about one-third of their height to reduce water loss and replant the divisions at the same depth they were growing before, spaced about 12 to 24 inches (approximately 30.5 to 61 centimeters) apart to allow for growth. Water them well to help establish in their new location.