Miniature Tall Bearded Iris Iris 'Enriched' (MTB)

Water

The Miniature Tall Bearded Iris, commonly known as the Miniature Tall Bearded Iris 'Enriched', prefers consistent moisture, especially during the growing season, but it does not like to be over-watered. Water deeply once a week to encourage root growth, providing about one to two gallons per plant per watering session, depending on the local weather conditions and soil type. During hot, dry periods, increase the frequency to twice a week, ensuring the soil stays moist but not soggy. Reduce watering after the blooming period has ended and during the dormant season to prevent root rot.

Light

Miniature Tall Bearded Iris 'Enriched' thrive in a location that receives full sun to partial shade. They perform best when they receive at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. The ideal spot for planting is in an area with bright, unfiltered sunlight for the majority of the day, which promotes vigorous growth and optimal blooming.

Temperature

For the Miniature Tall Bearded Iris 'Enriched', the ideal temperature range is between 35 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. They can survive minimum temperatures as low as 10 degrees Fahrenheit and maximum temperatures about 90 degrees Fahrenheit but ideally should be protected from extremes. Providing mulch can help maintain a more consistent root temperature during seasonal fluctuations.

Pruning

Pruning Miniature Tall Bearded Iris 'Enriched' involves removing spent flower stems down to the base of the plant to promote healthy growth and prevent seed formation. After blooming, trim away any brown or damaged leaves to maintain plant vigor and aesthetic appeal. The best time for pruning is immediately after flowering and throughout the growing season as needed to remove any dead or diseased plant material.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

The Miniature Tall Bearded Iris, commonly known as 'Enriched', thrives best in well-draining soil with a pH of slightly acidic to neutral (6.1 to 7.0). A good soil mix for this iris can include loamy garden soil mixed with compost and a bit of sand for improved drainage.

Repotting

Miniature Tall Bearded Irises typically do not need to be repotted often. They should be lifted and divided about every 3 to 4 years to ensure health and vigor. These plants prefer to be undisturbed, so minimize repotting.

Humidity & Misting

Miniature Tall Bearded Irises are not particularly sensitive to humidity levels. They are able to thrive in average outdoor humidity conditions without special requirements.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place in bright light, cool room, minimal water in winter.

• Outdoor

  Full sun, well-drained soil, divide clumps bi-annually.

• Hardiness zone

  3-9 USDA.

Life cycle

The Iris 'Enriched' (MTB), commonly known as Miniature Tall Bearded Iris, begins its life cycle as a rhizome, which is a type of bulb-like structure. Once planted, the rhizome sprouts leaves and stems, entering a phase of vegetative growth during which it develops the foliage necessary for photosynthesis. As the plant matures, it enters the flowering stage, typically in late spring to early summer, when it produces characteristic colorful and fragrant flowers that attract pollinators. Following pollination, the flowers produce seeds that, if conditions are right, can disperse and grow into new plants. As the blooming period ends, the plant enters a period of dormancy, especially in climates with cold winters, where the foliage dies back, and the rhizome survives underground. The cycle begins anew with the next growing season, as the rhizome generates new growth and the plant continues to propagate, either through seed germination or vegetative spread from the rhizome.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Late summer to autumn

• The most popular method of propagation for the Iris 'Enriched' (MTB), commonly referred to as a type of Bearded Iris, is through division. This typically takes place post-flowering, once the plants have finished their bloom cycle, and is best done in late summer to early fall. To divide, carefully dig up the iris clumps and use a sharp knife or spade to separate the rhizomes, ensuring each section has at least one fan of leaves and a portion of healthy roots. Trim the leaves to about one-third of their original height, which is approximately 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters), to reduce transpiration and make handling easier. Newly divided rhizomes should be replanted promptly, spaced about 12 to 24 inches (30 to 60 centimeters) apart to allow sufficient room for growth, and planted so the top of the rhizome is just slightly below the soil surface. This method of division encourages rejuvenation of the plant and helps prevent overcrowding, which can lead to diminished flowering.