Tall Bearded Iris Iris 'Paradise Bird' (TB)

Water

Bearded Iris should be watered deeply but infrequently to encourage deep root growth. They require approximately an inch of water every week, which could translate to about 0.6 gallons for a standard garden area if there's no significant rainfall. It's essential to let the soil dry out between watering to prevent rot. The best method is to water at the base of the plant, avoiding overhead watering to prevent disease. During the hot summer months, you may need to water twice a week, but always check the soil moisture first.

Light

Bearded Irises thrive in full sun conditions, requiring at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. Plant them in a spot where they are exposed to early morning sun, which dries dew quickly from their foliage, helping to prevent disease. Avoid heavily shaded areas as insufficient sunlight can lead to poor blooming.

Temperature

Bearded Iris does well in a temperate climate and can tolerate temperatures from as low as 5°F during winter dormancy to as high as 90°F during the growing season. The ideal growing temperature range for this Iris variety is between 55°F and 75°F. They require a period of cold dormancy to bloom well in the spring, so winter chill is important.

Pruning

Pruning your Bearded Iris involves cutting back the flower stems after blooming. This helps direct energy back into the rhizomes for next year's growth. Remove any brown or damaged leaves to keep the plant looking tidy and to prevent fungal diseases. Pruning is typically done immediately after bloom, or in late summer when you can also divide the rhizomes if necessary.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

The Tall Bearded Iris 'Paradise Bird' prefers well-draining, loamy soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH of 6.5-7. A good soil mix can be achieved by adding organic matter such as compost to improve soil structure and nutrients. The soil should be fertile but not overly rich, as too much nitrogen can impede blooming.

Repotting

Tall Bearded Iris 'Paradise Bird' typically does not need to be repotted, as they are not grown in containers. However, they should be divided every 3 to 5 years to maintain vigor and prevent overcrowding.

Humidity & Misting

Tall Bearded Iris 'Paradise Bird' is tolerant of a range of humidity levels and does not require high humidity to thrive. Outdoor ambient humidity is generally sufficient for this plant.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Provide bright light and good airflow for Tall Bearded Iris indoors.

• Outdoor

  Plant in full sun, ensure well-draining soil for Tall Bearded Iris.

• Hardiness zone

  3-9 USDA

Life cycle

The life of Iris 'Paradise Bird' (Tall Bearded Iris) begins with seed germination, where it establishes a root system and produces its first leaves. It subsequently enters a vegetative growth phase, developing a strong rhizome and additional foliage. This is followed by the flowering stage, typically in late spring to early summer, where it unveils its striking flowers. After pollination and flower withering, the plant enters a phase of seed maturation, where seed pods are developed and eventually scatter to produce new plants. The Tall Bearded Iris then goes into a period of dormancy during late summer and fall, especially in cooler climates. The cycle recommences with vegetative growth the following spring, where the rhizome may also produce new offshoots, expanding the size of the Iris cluster.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Late Summer to Fall

• Propogation: Iris 'Paradise Bird', commonly known as the Tall Bearded Iris, is typically propagated through division, which is best done in late summer after blooming has finished, usually from July to September. To propagate by division, carefully lift the clump of irises out of the ground with a spade or fork. Gently shake or wash off the soil to reveal the rhizomes, which are horizontal underground stems characteristic of irises. With a clean, sharp knife, cut the rhizomes apart, ensuring each section has at least one fan of leaves and healthy roots. Trim the leaves to about one-third of their height, which is roughly 4 to 6 inches (about 10 to 15 centimeters), to reduce water loss and make handling easier. Replant the divisions promptly, setting the rhizome just at or slightly below the soil surface, spacing them about 12 to 24 inches apart (30 to 60 centimeters) to give them space to grow. Water the new plantings well to help establish them.