Iris Rhizome Planting Guide
A pictorial view of how to plant an iris. Click the guide to see it full size.
Plant with the top of the rhizome exposed.
- Prepare the plant - Trim leaves to about 6-8 inches and cut at an angle.
- Top exposed - Set the rhizome so the top 1/3 remains above the soil.
- Lateral buds - May grow into additional fans.
- Roots - Spread roots over the mound and downward. Old roots help anchor the rhizome in place.
- Growing end - Plant with the growing end (where leaves emerge) facing up and slightly to the side.
- Soil level - Soil should be level with the bottom of the rhizome.
- Soil mound - Create a slight mound of soil beneath the rhizome for good drainage.
Good drainage is essential. Do not cover the top of the rhizome.
New roots develop as the rhizome becomes established.