Why aren't the irises blooming in my garden?

Iris (Iris) is a member of the extensive Iridaceae family. The genus includes over 800 species, boasting a rich diversity of shapes and colors. They can be found on almost every continent except distant Antarctica.

Most species grow in the Mediterranean, South, and Central Asia. Irises bloom solitarily or in clusters of several; some species have slightly fragrant flowers.

The plants are undemanding, undemanding of soil, and winter-hardy, but do not tolerate excessively wet soil. Bushes can grow fully in one location for up to seven years. Sometimes, the plants don't display their full decorative potential. Let's find out why.

Reasons

1. The root system is very deep. In this case, the "back" of the rhizome is poorly warmed by the sun. Therefore, when planting, ensure that 1/3 of the root collar is exposed above the soil. If it is covered with soil, the plant will develop foliage intensively and flowering may not occur at all.

2. Many irises love the sun. They can simply grow in the shade, and only in full sun can they display their magnificent blooms in all their glory.

3. These flowers thrive in open spaces and limited space—this is another reason. Their rhizomes grow quickly and take up a lot of space around them. After 3-4 years, they become too densely packed, leaving no room for new flower stalks to emerge. To ensure continuous blooming, irises are divided between 3 and 5 years old, and the divisions are replanted in new, spacious, sunny locations.

4. Today, there are hundreds of species and varieties, each with its own specific characteristics. For example, bearded irises don't tolerate acidic soils, while Siberian irises thrive in them. Therefore, before purchasing, it's important to consult with a specialist about the preferred soil type of the chosen flower, how it responds to light, watering, and fertilizing. This information will help you determine which varieties are best planted next to each other so they complement each other harmoniously.

5. Each plant has its own preference for wintering. Some species and varieties are quite winter-hardy, such as Siberian irises. They don't require winter protection. Delicate bearded irises from Holland can freeze in winter, so in regions with severe frosts, they need to be covered. However, if you cover the plantings too early, they may wither in a warm autumn; if you cover them too late, they will freeze and not bloom at all the following spring.

We also advise you to find out, How to grow cannas outdoors and indoorsThese plants are very beautiful, but they also require special care.