Iris Iris 'Templecloud' (IB)

Water

Intermediate Bearded Iris, commonly known as IB Iris, prefer to be watered deeply to encourage root growth, typically receiving about an inch of water per week. During the growing season, especially in the absence of rainfall, water the plant thoroughly about once a week, using enough water to soak the soil to a depth of at least 10 inches. In hot, dry weather, you may need to water more frequently to maintain consistent soil moisture, but do not overwater as these plants do not like standing water. Reduce watering after blooming has finished and during the dormant period in late summer. Over-watering or poorly draining soil can lead to rhizome rot.

Light

Intermediate Bearded Iris thrive best in full sunlight, which means they require a minimum of six hours of direct sunlight a day. They can tolerate partial shade, particularly in hot climates where they may benefit from some protection during the hottest part of the day. However, too much shade can reduce blooming and increase the risk of disease. The ideal spot for Intermediate Bearded Iris is a well-draining location that receives unfiltered sunlight.

Temperature

Intermediate Bearded Iris prefer temperate climates and do not do well in extreme heat or cold. They can survive winter temperatures down to about -20°F but also need a dormant period with temperatures between 35°F and 45°F to bloom successfully in the spring. The ideal growing temperature range for these irises is between 50°F and 75°F. It is important to protect them from intense summer heat, so offering some shade or mulch can help keep their roots cool.

Pruning

Intermediate Bearded Iris benefit from pruning chiefly to remove spent flower stems and to promote healthy growth and reblooming. After flowers fade, cut the stalk down to the base to keep the plants tidy and redirect energy to the rhizomes. In late summer or early fall, trim away any dead or damaged leaves, and after several years, divide and replant the rhizomes to rejuvenate the plant and ensure vigorous blooms. Pruning is typically done annually, but monitoring plant health throughout the year is important for timely maintenance.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

The Bearded Iris, including 'Templecloud', prefers a well-draining soil mix with a slightly acidic to neutral pH of 6.5 to 7. A mix that can be used for Bearded Irises can include loamy garden soil, compost, and coarse sand to improve drainage. It's essential to avoid soil that is overly rich or retains too much moisture, which can lead to rot.

Repotting

Bearded Iris 'Templecloud' typically doesn't require frequent repotting and can thrive for several years in the same spot. It's advisable to divide and repot these irises every 3 to 5 years to prevent overcrowding and to rejuvenate their vigor, usually after their bloom period in late summer.

Humidity & Misting

Bearded Irises like 'Templecloud' are fairly adaptable to various humidity levels and do not require high humidity environments. They perform well in the average outdoor humidity levels found in their growing zones, though it's important to ensure good air circulation around the plants to prevent disease.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Provide direct light, well-draining soil, and cooler night temps.

• Outdoor

  Sunny spot, well-draining soil, low water, divide every few years.

• Hardiness zone

  3-9 USDA

Life cycle

The life cycle of the Iris 'Templecloud', commonly referred to as a Bearded Iris, begins with seed germination, although for many gardeners, it starts with rhizome division from a mature plant. After germination or planting of a divided rhizome, the plant develops roots and shoots, leading into a stage of vegetative growth where foliage expands and the plant matures. The Bearded Iris enters a period of flowering in late spring to early summer, during which the distinctive iris flowers bloom, offering a display of color. Following pollination, the flowers wither and seed pods may form, eventually drying and releasing seeds if not deadheaded. As the growing season comes to an end, the foliage dies back, and the plant enters a period of dormancy through the winter. With the return of favorable conditions in the spring, the cycle continues as the iris resumes growth, leading to the next flowering season.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring to early summer

• The most popular method of propagation for the Iris 'Templecloud', also known as the Bearded Iris, is by dividing the rhizomes. This is typically done after the flowering period has ended and the foliage has started to yellow, which is often late summer to early fall. To propagate, gardeners should carefully dig up the clumps of irises, making sure to lift the rhizomes out of the ground without causing too much damage. They then clean off the dirt and use a sharp knife to cut the rhizomes into pieces, ensuring that each piece has at least one healthy fan of leaves and a portion of the roots. These divisions can then be replanted approximately a foot apart and just below the surface of the soil so that the top of the rhizome is barely visible, ensuring they have good contact with the soil and are watered well to help establish the new plants.