Iris Iris 'Michael Paul' (SDB)

Water

Dwarf bearded irises like the Iris 'Michael Paul' should be watered deeply to ensure the roots get enough moisture, however, they do not like to be constantly wet. It's important to allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. During the growing season, depending on the weather, watering once a week with approximately half a gallon per plant should suffice. When the weather is particularly hot and dry, increase watering to twice a week. Reduce watering after the blooming period and in the fall, as excessive moisture can lead to root rot.

Light

Dwarf bearded irises, including Iris 'Michael Paul', thrive in full sun. They prefer a spot that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. Ensure that the planting location is not shaded as these plants do best with plenty of light to encourage strong growth and vibrant blooms.

Temperature

The Dwarf bearded iris, Iris 'Michael Paul', can tolerate a wide range of temperatures but prefers conditions between 55 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. They can survive minimum temperatures down to around -20 degrees Fahrenheit but should be protected from extreme cold with mulch. During summer, they can withstand high temperatures as well, as long as they are watered adequately.

Pruning

Dwarf bearded irises, including the Iris 'Michael Paul', should be pruned to remove spent blooms and to keep the plant looking tidy. After the bloom season, cut back the flower stalks to the base. Additionally, in the late summer or early fall, remove any damaged or diseased leaves. Pruning encourages healthy growth and can prevent disease spread.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

For the Dwarf Bearded Iris 'Michael Paul', a well-draining soil mix is crucial. A good blend consists of 2 parts loam, 1 part sand or grit, and 1 part compost. Incorporate some peat moss or leaf mold to increase the organic content. This iris variety prefers a slightly acidic to neutral pH, ranging from 6.5 to 7.0. Ensure the soil is fertile and not too heavy to promote good drainage and aeration around the roots.

Repotting

Dwarf Bearded Irises, including 'Michael Paul', generally do not need frequent repotting and do best when undisturbed. They should be divided and repotted every 3-4 years to maintain vigor and flower production. The best time to repot and divide these irises is after flowering, typically in late summer.

Humidity & Misting

Dwarf Bearded Iris 'Michael Paul' is tolerant of a range of humidity levels and does not require a particularly humid environment. Average outdoor conditions are typically sufficient, indicating that the iris is adaptable to the natural humidity levels found in most temperate gardens.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Provide bright light and good airflow for indoor Dwarf Bearded Iris.

• Outdoor

  Plant in full sun, well-draining soil; divide every 3-4 years.

• Hardiness zone

  3-9 USDA

Life cycle

The Iris 'Michael Paul', a variety of Standard Dwarf Bearded Iris, begins its life as a seed, usually requiring a period of cold dormancy before germination. Upon sprouting, the seedling develops into a small plant, forming a rhizome that grows horizontally at or just below the soil surface. This rhizome will produce sword-like leaves and a flowering stem during the growing season, typically flowering in late spring to early summer with richly colored blooms. After flowering, the plant enters a period of vegetative growth, expanding its rhizome network and increasing foliage. As summer ends, the plant will start to go dormant, with foliage dying back in preparation for winter. The rhizome survives the cold months, storing energy for the next cycle of growth and blooming in the following spring.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Late Summer to Fall

• The most popular method for propagating Iris 'Michael Paul', a variety of Standard Dwarf Bearded Iris, is by division of rhizomes. This is typically done in late summer, after blooming has finished and the plant has had a chance to store energy in its rhizomes. Approximately every three to five years, or when the clumps become crowded, you'll want to dig up the entire clump with a garden fork. Gently break apart the rhizomes, making sure that each section has at least one healthy fan of leaves and a portion of the root system. Trim the leaves to about one-third of their height to reduce water loss and replant the divisions at or just slightly below the surface of the soil, ensuring that the top of the rhizome is exposed to the sun. Space the divisions about 12 to 18 inches apart (30 to 46 centimeters) to give them room to grow. Water them in well to settle the soil around the roots.