Iris Iris 'Lady Belle' (MTB)

Water

To ensure the Miniature Tall Bearded Iris 'Lady Belle' thrives, it is important to water it deeply but infrequently. The best method is to apply water directly to the base of the plant, avoiding overhead watering that can lead to fungal diseases. During the active growth period in spring and early summer, watering once a week with about a gallon of water per plant is sufficient. Once established, irises are quite drought-tolerant but should be kept moist during blooming. After flowering, reduce watering to help encourage dormancy, especially in areas with hot summers.

Light

Miniature Tall Bearded Iris 'Lady Belle' requires full sun to bloom well. Ideally, plant it in a spot where it can receive at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. A location with morning sun and afternoon shade is also suitable, especially in hot climates to prevent flower colors from fading. The Miniature Tall Bearded Iris 'Lady Belle' will not bloom as prolifically in shaded areas, so choose a bright, sunny spot in the garden.

Temperature

Miniature Tall Bearded Iris 'Lady Belle' can tolerate a wide range of temperatures but grows best in conditions between 55 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. It can withstand winter temperatures as low as -20 degrees Fahrenheit, but should not be exposed to temperatures above 90 degrees Fahrenheit for extended periods. Ideal temperatures encourage robust growth and vibrant blooms during the flowering season.

Pruning

The Miniature Tall Bearded Iris 'Lady Belle' needs pruning to maintain health and aesthetics. After the blooms have faded, cut the flower stems down to the base of the plant. In the late summer or early fall, trim back the foliage to a height of about 6 inches to reduce the risk of winter damage and to tidy up the garden. Additionally, remove any dead or diseased leaves throughout the growing season to promote good air circulation and prevent rot.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

The best soil mix for the Miniature Tall Bearded Iris, also known as Iris 'Lady Belle', should be rich, well-draining with a slightly acidic to neutral pH between 6.5 and 7.0. A mix with loamy soil, compost, and sharp sand or perlite works well to provide the necessary drainage and fertility.

Repotting

Miniature Tall Bearded Irises generally do not need frequent repotting and can be left undisturbed for several years. Repot or divide them every 3 to 5 years, in late summer, to maintain vigor and flower production.

Humidity & Misting

Miniature Tall Bearded Irises tolerate a wide range of humidity levels but prefer a drier climate. They do not require high humidity and can thrive in average garden conditions without the need for specialized humidity adjustments.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Ensure full sun, good air circulation, and minimal watering.

• Outdoor

  Plant in full sun, well-draining soil; divide every few years.

• Hardiness zone

  3-9 USDA

Life cycle

The Iris 'Lady Belle' (Miniature Tall Bearded Iris) life cycle begins with seed germination, which occurs in a temperature-regulated environment as Irises require a period of cold stratification to break dormancy. Following germination, the seedlings develop into young plants with a rosette of leaves and a small rhizome. The plant enters a vegetative growth stage, during which the rhizome expands and the plant produces more leaves, preparing for future blooms. In spring to early summer, the Iris 'Lady Belle' reaches the flowering stage, showcasing elegant, often fragrant blooms that attract pollinators. After flowering, the plant sets seeds while the foliage continues photosynthesizing to store energy in the rhizome for the next season. Finally, as temperatures drop at the onset of winter, the plant enters dormancy, with the foliage dying back, and the cycle is ready to begin again in the next growing season.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Early Summer

• The Iris 'Lady Belle', belonging to the Miniature Tall Bearded (MTB) category of irises, is commonly propagated through the division of its rhizomes. The best time to carry out this process is late summer to early fall, allowing the plants to establish before the onset of winter. To propagate by division, carefully dig up the iris clumps after the flowering season has ended and the leaves have begun to die back. Wash the soil off the rhizomes and inspect them, discarding any that are soft or show signs of disease. Using a sharp, clean knife, divide the rhizomes by cutting them apart, ensuring that each section has at least one fan of leaves and a healthy set of roots. Trim the leaves to about one-third of their height to reduce water loss, and plant the divisions at a spacing of about 12 to 18 inches (approximately 30 to 45 cm) apart and with the rhizome just at or slightly below the soil surface. Water the new plantings well to help establish them, but be cautious not to overwater, as this can promote rot.