Iris Iris 'Prince of Burgundy' (IB)

Water

The Bearded Iris 'Prince of Burgundy' should be watered deeply and infrequently to simulate their natural environment, generally once a week if there's no significant rainfall. Watering should ensure that the soil is moist but not waterlogged. During the active growth period, it's important to provide the Iris with approximately one to two gallons of water every week or two, tailoring the amount to soil drainage and climate conditions. Reduce watering after the blooming period and during dormant seasons, particularly in winter, to prevent root rot. Always avoid overhead watering to minimize the risk of fungal diseases on the leaves and blooms.

Light

Bearded Irises, including 'Prince of Burgundy', thrive best in full sunlight. They require a minimum of six hours of direct sunlight per day, with more being beneficial for the production of blooms. The ideal spot for planting Bearded Irises is a location where they are exposed to the morning sun, which helps dry dew from the leaves and prevents fungal disease.

Temperature

Bearded Iris 'Prince of Burgundy' can tolerate a wide temperature range, from winter conditions as low as -40 degrees Fahrenheit to summer highs of around 90 degrees Fahrenheit. The ideal growing temperature is between 55 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. They're hardy plants that can survive cold winters but they should be protected from extreme heat and prolonged frost.

Pruning

The Bearded Iris 'Prince of Burgundy' should be pruned to promote plant health by removing spent blooms, which encourages the possibility of reblooming. Dead leaves and withered flower stalks should be cut back to the plant's base to prevent disease. The best time for pruning is immediately after flowering and again in late summer to early fall to tidy the plant and prepare it for winter. Pruning can take place annually as part of the iris maintenance routine.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

The Bearded Iris 'Prince of Burgundy' thrives in well-draining soil enriched with organic matter, such as loamy or sandy soil with some compost or aged manure mixed in. The ideal soil pH for Bearded Iris should be slightly acidic to neutral, around 6.8 to 7.0. It's important to avoid soil that holds too much moisture, as this can lead to root rot.

Repotting

Bearded Iris 'Prince of Burgundy' does not require frequent repotting and is typically divided every 3 to 5 years to maintain vigor and to prevent overcrowding. The best time to divide and repot Bearded Irises is in late summer, after they have finished blooming.

Humidity & Misting

The Bearded Iris 'Prince of Burgundy' prefers lower humidity levels and is quite tolerant of dry conditions. It does not require any special humidity considerations and typically thrives in the ambient humidity found in most outdoor garden settings.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Ensure full sun, well-draining soil, and avoid overwatering.

• Outdoor

  Plant in full sun, in well-draining soil; divide every 3-5 years.

• Hardiness zone

  3-9 USDA

Life cycle

Iris 'Prince of Burgundy', also known as Bearded Iris, begins its life cycle when the seeds are sown or rhizomes are planted in well-draining soil, often after the last frost of spring. Following germination or new growth from the rhizome, the plant develops foliage in the form of sword-shaped leaves and establishes a strong root system. As the plant matures, typically in late spring to early summer, it produces tall stems that bear the iconic, richly colored burgundy flowers, which may also attract pollinators. After blooming, the flowers fade, and the plant directs energy into replenishing the rhizome for the next growing season. In autumn, foliage may die back as the plant enters dormancy, especially in colder climates. Each year, the plant may grow more vigorously and produce more blooms, and after several years, clumps of rhizomes may be divided to propagate new plants and maintain vigorous growth.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Early spring

• The most popular way to propagate Iris 'Prince of Burgundy' is by division, which is typically done in late summer after the flowering has finished. Carefully dig up the clumps of iris, trying not to damage the roots or rhizomes. Clean off the dirt and separate the rhizomes by snapping them apart with your hands or cutting them with a clean, sharp knife. Make sure each division has at least one healthy fan of leaves and a section of the rhizome. Trim the leaves to about a third of their height to reduce water loss. Replant the divisions promptly, setting the rhizome so the top is slightly below the soil surface, spaces about 12 to 24 inches apart (30 to 60 centimeters). Water well to settle the soil around the roots. This method allows the iris to rejuvenate and often produces flowers the following season.