Bearded Iris Iris 'Cream Soda' (TB)

Water

Tall Bearded Irises, including 'Cream Soda', should be watered deeply but infrequently to mimic their preferred dry climate conditions. During the active growth period in spring and early summer, water them with about an inch of water per week. However, in the absence of rainfall, increase watering to help establish new plantings or during extreme heat, always allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. After blooming has finished, reduce the amount of water, as too much moisture can lead to rhizome rot. During the winter months, watering should be minimal since the plant is dormant, especially in areas where there is rainfall.

Light

Tall Bearded Irises like 'Cream Soda' thrive best in full sun conditions which means they require at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily to bloom well. The best spot for these irises is an area where they can bask in unfiltered sunlight throughout the day, generally facing south or west in the Northern Hemisphere. Avoid placing them in shaded areas as insufficient light can impede their flowering.

Temperature

Tall Bearded Iris 'Cream Soda' is well-suited for a wide range of temperatures but ideally prefers a climate where the temperature varies from 70°F to 90°F during the growing season. These irises can typically withstand winter lows down to about -30°F, while summer highs should not exceed 90°F to prevent damage to the plants. To bloom, they need a period of chilling over the winter, therefore, they do best with cold winters and hot, drier summers.

Pruning

Pruning Tall Bearded Iris 'Cream Soda' is mainly for aesthetic reasons and to promote plant health. Cut back the flower stalks to the base after blooming to keep the garden tidy and redirect energy back into the rhizomes. In late summer or early fall, trim the foliage into a fan shape about 4 to 6 inches high to prepare for winter and reduce the risk of leaf-borne diseases. Additionally, remove any damaged or dead leaves throughout the growing season to maintain plant health.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

The ideal soil mix for Tall Bearded Iris 'Cream Soda' should be well-draining and slightly acidic to neutral, with a pH range of 6.5 to 7.0. A mix of loamy soil, compost, and coarse sand is beneficial for its growth.

Repotting

Tall Bearded Iris 'Cream Soda' typically do not need frequent repotting and can thrive in the same location for several years. They should be divided and replanted every 3 to 5 years to ensure vigorous growth.

Humidity & Misting

Tall Bearded Iris 'Cream Soda' are tolerant to a range of humidity levels and do well in the average outdoor humidity. They do not require high humidity environments.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Ensure plenty of sunlight and well-draining soil mix.

• Outdoor

  Plant in sunny spot with well-drained soil.

• Hardiness zone

  3-9 USDA

Life cycle

Iris 'Cream Soda', a type of Tall Bearded Iris, begins its life cycle as a rhizome planted in well-drained soil, ideally in late summer. After planting, the rhizome establishes roots and sends up sword-like green leaves, entering a vegetative state as it accumulates nutrients. In the following spring or early summer, flower stalks emerge among the foliage, culminating in the blooming of cream soda-colored flowers that feature falls, standards, and beards characteristic of the bearded iris group. After flowering, the plant enters a period of dormancy, especially in hotter climates, where it conserves energy for the next growing season. The plant then propagates itself either vegetatively through the division of the rhizomes every 3-4 years to maintain vigor or through the production of seeds if the flowers were pollinated. The life cycle repeats annually as the mature rhizomes continue to produce new foliage and blooms each year.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Early summer

• Propogation: Iris 'Cream Soda', commonly known as a Tall Bearded Iris, is most effectively propagated through division, ideally undertaken in late summer after the blooming season has finished. To propagate by division, dig up the iris clumps carefully and shake off any excess dirt. Then, using a sharp knife, cut the rhizomes apart, ensuring that each section has at least one fan of leaves and a portion of the roots. Trim the leaves to a third of their original length, which is typically about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters), to reduce water loss and make handling easier. Replant the divisions promptly, setting the rhizome just at or slightly below the soil surface with the roots spread out underneath. Water them well to settle the soil around the roots, which helps minimize air pockets that could damage the rhizome. This division method allows the irises to rejuvenate and bloom vigorously in the following seasons.