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transplanting bearded irises #878658

Asked July 24, 2024, 8:10 PM EDT

I need to dig up a iris bed immediately to do a plumbing repair. What is the best way to store the irises till they can be replanted. It could be up to 3 weeks for repair to be finished. Do I remove the foliage?

Jackson County Oregon

Expert Response

Yes, you can dig up iris bulbs in late summer to early fall, after they have finished blooming and become dormant. This is the best time to divide and replant irises because the drier weather reduces the risk of bacterial and fungal rot. Iris rhizomes planted in late summer have enough time to establish their roots before the end of the growing season.
To store iris bulbs before transplanting, you can keep them in a cool, dry place with good air circulation, such as a garage, in a box. This method works for all types of iris bulbs and rhizomes, and can make it easier to transport them
Here are some tips for dividing bearded irises:

Use digging forks or a spade to loosen the soil around the rhizomes and carefully dig up the clumps

Cut the leaves back to about one-third of their original height

Shake or wash the soil away from the rhizomes with a strong stream of water

Separate the rhizomes, making sure to leave behind all small pieces so they can grow and bloom again.







Chris Rusch Replied July 25, 2024, 11:21 PM EDT

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