Tall Bearded Iris Iris 'Oh! Susannah' (TB)

Water

Tall Bearded Iris 'Oh! Susannah' should be watered deeply and infrequently to encourage strong root growth, approximately every 7 to 10 days during the active growing season, provided there is no significant rainfall. Ideally, apply about one inch of water each time, which for an average garden area would translate to around half a gallon per square foot over that period. It's crucial to avoid overwatering as it can lead to rhizome rot. Ensure the soil is well-drained and allow the topsoil to dry out slightly between waterings. Watering frequency should be decreased after blooming ends and during the dormant period in winter.

Light

Tall Bearded Iris 'Oh! Susannah' thrives best in conditions where it receives at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. A spot with full sun exposure ensures vigorous growth and optimal flowering. If possible, choose a location that provides morning sun and some afternoon shade in hotter climates to protect the blooms.

Temperature

Tall Bearded Iris 'Oh! Susannah' can tolerate a wide range of temperatures but performs optimally when day temperatures are between 55°F and 85°F. It's hardy and can survive winter lows down to -40°F, making it resilient to harsh conditions. The ideal temperatures for this iris type would be moderate, with the plant experiencing no issues in the typical temperature fluctuations of temperate zones.

Pruning

Tall Bearded Iris 'Oh! Susannah' requires pruning mainly to remove spent flowers and to tidy up the plant by cutting back on brown leaves. This pruning, done immediately after blooming, prevents the iris from wasting energy on seed production. Additionally, in late summer or fall, cut foliage down to about 6 inches to prepare the plant for winter and prevent overwintering pests and diseases. It's important to sterilize your cutting tools before use to prevent the spread of disease.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

The Tall Bearded Iris 'Oh! Susannah' thrives in well-draining soil with moderate fertility and a pH slightly on the acidic to neutral side, around 6.8 to 7.0. A good soil mix might contain loamy garden soil, compost, and coarse sand to enhance drainage.

Repotting

Tall Bearded Iris 'Oh! Susannah' typically does not require frequent repotting. If clumps become overcrowded, usually every 3 to 5 years, they should be divided and replanted in fresh soil to encourage continued blooming.

Humidity & Misting

Tall Bearded Iris 'Oh! Susannah' is tolerant of a wide range of humidity levels but prefers conditions that are not excessively moist, mirroring its natural habitat, which has moderate humidity.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Ensure ample light, good airflow, and avoid overwatering.

• Outdoor

  Plant in full sun, well-drained soil, and maintain even moisture.

• Hardiness zone

  3-9 USDA

Life cycle

The life of the Iris 'Oh! Susannah', also known as Tall Bearded Iris, begins with seed germination, which typically occurs in late spring, where seeds develop in a cold, moist environment, simulating winter conditions. After germination, the seedlings grow into juvenile plants, producing their first leaves and establishing a small root system. As the plants mature, they develop a robust rhizome, the bulb-like underground stem characteristic of irises, along with a larger root system and increase in foliage. The Tall Bearded Iris reaches its flowering stage in late spring to early summer, displaying its showy, large, and fragrant blooms, which are usually a deep yellow or gold color in this cultivar. After flowering, the plant enters a period of vegetative growth and energy storage in the rhizome to prepare for the next flowering season. Upon the end of the growing season, the iris enters dormancy, with foliage dying back, and it remains dormant through the winter until the cycle begins again with the warmth of spring.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Late summer

• The Iris 'Oh! Susannah', also known as a Tall Bearded Iris, is typically propagated by division. This is best done late in the summer, after the flowering has finished, usually every 3 to 5 years to maintain plant vigor and health. To propagate, carefully dig up the clump of iris rhizomes, which are the thick, fleshy roots that store energy for the plant. Using a sharp knife, divide the rhizomes by cutting them into pieces, making sure that each section has at least one fan of leaves and a portion of the roots. Trim the leaves to about a third of their original height, or around 4 to 6 inches (approximately 10 to 15 centimeters), to reduce transpiration and give the plant a better chance to establish. Lastly, replant the divisions, setting the rhizome so the top is slightly exposed to the sun, in well-draining soil and spaced about 12 to 24 inches apart (30 to 60 centimeters). This allows enough space for the iris to grow and ensures optimal flowering in subsequent years.