Tall Bearded Iris Iris 'Wensleydale' (TB)

Water

Tall Bearded Irises like 'Wensleydale' require moderate watering especially during the growing season. Ensure the soil is well-draining and water deeply about once a week to encourage deep root systems, which equates to around one inch of water or about half a gallon per square foot. During periods of extreme heat or drought, additional watering may be necessary. However, avoid overwatering as this can lead to root rot. After blooming has finished, reduce watering to discourage excessive growth that can be damaged by winter cold.

Light

Tall Bearded Irises, including the 'Wensleydale' variety, thrive best in full sunlight. They need at least six hours of direct sunlight a day, so plant them in a location where they can receive plenty of light without being shaded by other plants or structures. Adequate sunlight is essential for the health of the plant and for ensuring vibrant blooms.

Temperature

Tall Bearded Irises like 'Wensleydale' prefer temperate climates and can generally tolerate temperatures as low as -40 degrees Fahrenheit and as high as 90 degrees Fahrenheit for short periods. However, the ideal growing temperatures are between 35 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. They require a period of winter chilling to bloom successfully.

Pruning

Prune Tall Bearded Irises like 'Wensleydale' after they have finished blooming by cutting back the flower stalks to the base to prevent seeding and encourage more vigorous plant growth. Remove old, damaged, or diseased foliage anytime to maintain plant health. The best time for major pruning is late summer or early fall when you can clean up the plant and prepare it for winter.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Tall Bearded Iris prefers well-draining, rich soil with a pH of slightly acidic to neutral, around 6.5 to 7.0. A mix with loamy soil, compost, and perlite or sand to improve drainage is ideal.

Repotting

Tall Bearded Iris typically does not need frequent repotting and can thrive for many years in the same spot. It’s best to divide and repot every 3 to 5 years to maintain vigor.

Humidity & Misting

Tall Bearded Iris tolerates a range of humidity levels but does best in typical outdoor humidity conditions; excessive humidity can promote disease.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Ensure bright light, minimal watering, and good air flow.

• Outdoor

  Plant in full sun with well-draining soil.

• Hardiness zone

  3-9 USDA

Life cycle

Iris 'Wensleydale', commonly known as Tall Bearded Iris, begins its life cycle as a dormant rhizome, which is typically planted in late summer to early fall. The rhizome roots and establishes itself, sending up shoots that develop into straps of green leaves as temperatures warm in spring. During this vegetative stage, the plant focuses on growth and the production of carbohydrates through photosynthesis, which it stores in the rhizome. As the season progresses, Tall Bearded Iris enters the reproductive phase, sending up tall flower stalks that bloom in late spring to early summer with striking purple flowers. After blooming, the flowers wither, and the plant sets seeds in pods, though many gardeners remove the spent flowers to encourage robust growth for the next season. Finally, the plant goes into a period of dormancy during late summer to early fall when the foliage dies back, conserving energy in the rhizome for the next growing season.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Late summer to early fall

• Propogation: The Iris 'Wensleydale' (TB), commonly known as the Tall Bearded Iris, is typically propagated through division, which is best done in late summer after the blooming period. This process involves carefully digging up the rhizomes, which are the horizontal underground stems, and cutting them into sections with a sharp knife, ensuring that each section has at least one fan of leaves and a portion of the roots attached. The divisions should then be replanted promptly in well-draining soil, spacing them about 12 to 24 inches apart (30 to 60 centimeters) to allow for adequate air circulation and room for growth. The top of the rhizome should be slightly exposed to the sun, and the roots should be spread out below the soil surface. It's crucial to water the newly planted iris divisions well to help establish them in their new location.