Tall Bearded Iris Iris 'Eileen Louise' (TB)

Water

Tall Bearded Irises like 'Eileen Louise' need consistent moisture during the growing season, especially when forming buds and blooming. It is best to water deeply but infrequently, providing about an inch of water per week, which equates to 0.6 gallons for an area of 10 square feet. The soil should be allowed to dry out between waterings to prevent rot. During the hottest part of the summer or dry spells, increase watering to twice a week, ensuring the soil is well-drained. Do not water excessively as standing water can lead to diseases.

Light

Tall Bearded Iris ‘Eileen Louise’ prefers full sun exposure to thrive. A minimum of six hours of direct sunlight per day is ideal, with more sunlight resulting in better blooms. Place the iris in a spot where it receives unhindered, full sun throughout the day for optimal growth and flowering. Avoid planting it in areas with significant shade, as this can impede its ability to flower and increase susceptibility to diseases.

Temperature

Tall Bearded Irises are hardy and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures but grow best in conditions that mirror their origins. They can survive winter temperatures down to about -30°F and summer temperatures as high as 90°F. The ideal growing temperature range for the iris is between 55°F and 75°F. Ensure the plant is well-mulched during winter to protect against extreme cold.

Pruning

Tall Bearded Iris 'Eileen Louise' should be pruned to maintain plant health and encourage future blooms. After flowering, remove spent blooms. In late summer or fall, trim back the foliage to about 6 inches above the ground to minimize overwintering pests and diseases. Pruning is also necessary when dividing iris clumps, which should be done every 3 to 5 years. The best time for division and pruning is after the flowering period, typically late summer.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

The best soil mix for Tall Bearded Iris should be well-draining, loamy, and slightly acidic to neutral, with an ideal pH of 6.8 to 7.0. A mix of two-thirds loam and one-third coarse sand or perlite can improve drainage. Organic matter like compost can also be added to enhance soil structure and fertility.

Repotting

Tall Bearded Iris typically don't need frequent repotting and can be left undisturbed for several years. They should be divided and repotted every 3 to 5 years to prevent overcrowding and to rejuvenate the plant's vigor.

Humidity & Misting

Tall Bearded Iris are not particularly humidity-sensitive and can tolerate the average ambient humidity found in temperate climates. They thrive best in outdoor conditions where humidity is naturally regulated. Therefore, specific humidity levels need not be maintained for these irises.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Ensure bright light, cool temperatures, and good air circulation.

• Outdoor

  Plant in full sun, well-draining soil, and provide space to grow.

• Hardiness zone

  3-10 USDA

Life cycle

Iris 'Eileen Louise' (TB), commonly known as Tall Bearded Iris, begins its life as a rhizome planted just below the soil surface, usually in late summer or autumn. The rhizome grows roots and foliage emerges as sword-shaped leaves in a fan-like formation, preparing the plant for photosynthesis and growth. In the subsequent spring, flowering stalks develop, and between late spring and early summer, the iris blooms, displaying its distinctive large flowers that can range in colors, typically lasting a few days to a week. After flowering, the plant continues to photosynthesize and store energy in the rhizome for the next season. By late summer, the foliage may start to wilt and the plant goes dormant, conserving resources through the winter. The life cycle repeats when the weather warms, with the potential for division and replanting of the rhizomes to propagate new plants every 3 to 4 years, sustaining the spread of the iris in the garden.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring to Summer

• Propogation: The most popular method of propagating Iris 'Eileen Louise' (Tall Bearded Iris) is by dividing rhizomes. This should be done after the flowering season has finished and the plant has gone dormant, which is typically late summer to early fall. To propagate, carefully dig up the clumps of irises, making sure to minimize damage to the rhizomes and roots. Using a sharp knife, divide the rhizomes by cutting them apart, ensuring that each division has at least one fan of leaves and a portion of roots. Trim the leaves to about a third of their height to reduce water loss and replant the rhizome divisions promptly, placing them so that the top of the rhizome is slightly exposed to the air. Space the new plantings about 12 to 24 inches apart to allow for growth. Water the newly planted rhizomes thoroughly to help establish them.