Dutch Iris Mix

Dutch Iris bulbs are planted in fall for blooms the following early summer. Open your package right away and store the bulbs in a cool, dry, dark spot until you are ready to plant.

Planting

1. Pick your spot. Choose a site with full sun to partial shade and soil that drains well; standing water will rot the bulbs.
2. Loosen the soil. Work the top 8-10 inches of soil until it is crumbly, mixing in compost if your ground is heavy clay.
3. Set the depth. Plant bulbs 4-5 inches deep with the pointed end facing up.
4. Space them out. Leave 3-6 inches between bulbs, and plant in clusters of 10 or more for the best color impact.
5. Water in. Backfill, firm the soil gently, and water once to settle everything into place.

Watering

• Fall and spring. Keep the soil lightly moist while roots and shoots are growing, about an inch of water per week including rainfall.
• After bloom. Cut back on water as the foliage yellows; the bulbs prefer a drier rest period in summer.

Feeding

• At planting. Mix a balanced bulb fertilizer into the planting hole.
• Each spring. Feed once as shoots emerge to fuel strong stems and next year's flowers.

After Blooming

• Deadhead spent flowers. Snip off faded blooms so energy goes back to the bulb.
• Leave the foliage. Let the grass-like leaves die back naturally before removing them.
• Mulch in cold zones. Add 2-3 inches of mulch after the ground chills to protect bulbs through winter.

Containers

• Use a deep pot. Choose a container at least 10 inches deep with drainage holes and quality potting mix.
• Overwinter cold. Potted bulbs need a cold period; keep pots in an unheated garage or sheltered spot and water sparingly.

When should I plant Dutch Iris bulbs?

Plant in fall, several weeks before the ground freezes, so the bulbs can root before winter. They will bloom the following early summer.

Are Dutch Iris deer resistant?

Yes. Iris are deer resistant and are typically passed over by rabbits as well, which makes them a good choice for unfenced beds.

Will these come back every year?

Yes, Dutch Iris are hardy in zones 3-9 and will return each year when planted in well-drained soil. Leave the foliage in place after bloom so the bulbs can recharge.

How many bulbs are in a pack and what size are they?

Each pack contains 50 bulbs, sized 6-7 cm each.

Do they make good cut flowers?

They do. The 18-24 inch stems are straight and sturdy, so cut them just as the buds begin to show color for the longest vase life.

Can I grow Dutch Iris in containers?

Yes. Use a pot at least 10 inches deep with drainage holes. In cold climates, move the pot to an unheated garage or sheltered area for winter so the bulbs still get their chill period without freezing solid.