Looks like an iris flower. Growing iris in open ground on a personal plot: characteristics of the variety

Irises are widespread in nature and are found on all continents. The flowers of these plants are collected in inflorescences, but there are varieties that bloom with single flowers. Iris petals are colored blue, red, yellow, purple, pink and other bright colors. Visible in the middle part of the petals beautiful drawing, different in color from the main color.

Irises are beautiful garden flowers that come in a variety of colors.

The leaves of these plants are long, hard, and sword-shaped. They grow directly from the root, tightly adjacent to each other near the ground. Only small leaves grow on the peduncle stems.

The root system is located in the top layer of soil and develops in a horizontal direction. Irises bloom from late May to mid-summer; some wild varieties have a shorter flowering period, lasting 3-4 weeks.

Reference. There are several wild flowers and their breeding varieties that are similar to irises in the shape of their leaves and the appearance of their inflorescences.

Flowers that are similar to irises, but are not them, have two dozen names. To understand the name of a particular flower, you need to read its botanical description.

Alstroemeria is similar to irises in the shape of its flowers, but it is not an irise. This species belongs to the Lily-flowered plants. The flowers of alstroemeria and irises have a similar appearance and a wide variety of colors.

Alstroemeria petals can be yellow, pink, white, red, one-color or two-color. Flowers have 6 petals, they almost always have dark longitudinal “lines”, and often yellow spots. The flowers are collected in umbellate inflorescences. The green leaves are lanceolate, curved, and grow on flower stems. The homeland of alstroemeria is South America.

Aquatic killer whale

This plant belongs to the genus Iris, but to a different species (False calamus). The aquatic iris is similar to the classic iris in the shape and appearance of the inflorescences.

Flowers grow at the ends of branched stems; they are collected in bunches of 3-8 pieces. The color of the petals is bright yellow, the outer flowers of the inflorescences are larger and longer.

The water iris is characterized only by the yellow color of the petals. This flower grows in swamps, marshy meadows and damp river banks. Iris grows in northern Africa, throughout Europe, Asia and Western Siberia.

In the wild, iridodictum grows in the foothills and mountain valleys of the Caucasus, in Asia Minor and Western Asia. It belongs to the irises and has the characteristic shape of flowers and leaves for this family. The color of the flowers is blue, violet, less often blue and yellow.

There are many breeding varieties of iridodictum. They differ from most iris plants in having a more powerful bulb.

Iridodictum is called the snowdrop iris, as it blooms in February and March, when the leaves and flower stems reach 12-15 cm. After flowering, the leaves continue to grow in height.

There are many types of orchids, all of which belong to the Orchidaceae family. The flowers of irises and many varieties of orchids are similar in shape, arrangement of petals and their appearance. Orchid petals are red, pink, crimson, white, maroon, orange, variegated.

But the leaves of these species are very different. In the iris they are hard and sword-shaped, in orchids they are oval, pointed, sometimes “corrugated”. Tropical orchids have thick leaves, often with rounded ends.

The flowers of some selected varieties of snapdragons are similar to irises. The fundamental difference from iris is the appearance of peduncles.

In snapdragons, the inflorescences are columnar, the flowers are arranged alternately on a long stem-peduncle; in irises, the inflorescences grow at the end of the stem-peduncle. Snapdragon belongs to the Podorozhnikov family. Area wild species - North America and Europe.

Cuckoo's tears are a herbaceous plant of the Orchid family, but the shape of its flower is more similar to the Siberian iris (Iris sibirica). The color of the flowers is blue, violet-blue, less often bluish-blue. A white speckled pattern is visible on the petals.

Cuckoo's tears bloom in early June, before flowering they grow 10-15 cm. root system produces several peduncles and two dozen leaves. Cuckoo's Tears bloom in June. The species range is Europe and Siberia.

Entering a village garden on a warm June day, you will probably see an overgrown curtain of elegant cockerels. Simple and unpretentious, but no less charming for that. The folk flower also has a more euphonious name - iris; it has a rich pedigree and its own elite. Magnificent varieties irises with photos and names described in this article will appeal to amateur gardeners and professional designers garden

Iris - the personification of grace and eleganceRainbow flower

The rhizomatous perennial belongs to the Kasatiaceae family and has almost 800 species, distributed almost throughout the planet. It is difficult to find a person who does not know what an iris looks like - its flower is so unusual that once you see it, you will not forget it. But if there are any, we offer a description of the plant.

Its rhizome is creeping, divided into annual units. A fan of flat sword-shaped leaves sprouts from each segment in the spring. From this bunch comes a thick, durable peduncle, on which 1 to 6 single flowers bloom.

The flower itself is large - 7.5–11 cm high, up to 18 cm in diameter, consists of 6 petals (lobes) - three internal and three external. The inner petals are usually raised upward and form a “crown” or “glass”. The outer lobes, also called fouls, diverge horizontally to the sides or are lowered down.

Both the variegated colors of the petals and the palette of numerous varieties of irises confirm the name of the flower, which is translated from Greek as “rainbow”. There are a variety of tones and combinations:

• plain (self) – white, pastel, rich, almost black;
• combinations with traditional color combinations - white and blue, yellow and brown;
• contrasting combinations of tones and shades, for example, pink and lavender;
• variegated (speckled, edged).

There is no single international classification of the plant - in our country only rhizomatous perennials are called irises; in Europe, bulbous relatives of the flower are also included in the same genus. And the domestic garden classification does not add clarity to the simple amateur gardener. Without going into botanical details, the following types of irises are most often grown in gardens and parks:

• bearded (the most numerous, widespread and sought-after group);
• Siberian;
• Japanese;
• Spuria irises;
• bulbous hybrids (Dutch or English).

Before purchasing collectible irises, carefully read the assortment and resistance of the specimen you like to climatic conditions your region. Many of the hybrids bred in the USA, Japan, Holland, Australia are heat-loving and cannot withstand the frosts of the middle zone, not to mention Siberia or the Urals.

By choosing varieties with different flowering periods, you will enjoy a rainbow palette from mid-May to July. Bearded irises

More than 500 varieties and interspecific hybrids - the bearded iris boasts such a large family.

A powerful, resilient and unpretentious perennial according to the height of the bush is divided into 3 groups:

• dwarf varieties (21–40 cm);
• medium height (41–70 cm);
• tall (from 71 cm).

In the tall group, forms have been bred that grow up to 110–120 cm with powerful peduncles that simultaneously bear 5–12 flowers. The taller the plant, the larger and more massive they are, with dense, corrugated petals and a “lace” edge.

The distinctive feature due to which the iris received its specific name is the so-called beard, clearly visible in the photo below. This is a shaggy stripe of dense short hairs located at the base of the central vein of the outer fouls. In color it can either coincide with the main background or contrast with it.

A coral-colored beard is clearly visible at the base of the outer petals.

Advantages of the view

It is no coincidence that bearded irises are so popular. In addition to their magnificent appearance and a wide range of colors and shades, they have many other advantages.

• The plant grows quickly and intensively.
• Blooms profusely and for a long time.
• A large number of frost-resistant varieties have been developed that do not need to be covered for the winter.
• The flower is hardy, rarely gets sick, and is resistant to pests.

Bearded irises are good in flower beds and as cut flowers. Dwarf varieties are appropriate in borders and on alpine hills, solo and in composition with other perennials. Tall specimens are indispensable for tapeworms; they look great in company with lilies and peonies.

Review of popular varieties

We offer a small selection of varieties of bearded irises with photos and names. This is only a small part of the assortment offered by domestic and foreign breeders, for which we selected spectacular specimens that have proven themselves in our conditions.

• Supreme Sultan is a two-color hybrid of American selection, a powerful plant more than a meter high. The inner petals (standards) are a rich yellow-ocher color, collected in a crown, the fouls are cherry-burgundy with a yellow beard, dropped low. The edge of the petals is corrugated. Flowering period is May-June.

  Pictured is the American variety Supreme Sultan

• Thornbird is a popular variety of green-flowered bearded plants, tall (over 80 cm) with a strong peduncle and a luxurious fan of leaves. The flower is large (ø 13–14 cm), orchid-shaped with cream standards and greenish-mustard foliates, on which a yellow beard with a violet-brown horn stands out. It blooms in June-July, magnificently and abundantly. Suitable for growing in middle lane.

  Green-flowering variety Thornbird

• Sultan Palace is one of the spectacular monochromatic hybrids of Dutch selection. The height of the bush is about a meter, the flower is large with a diameter of up to 15 cm. The upper and lower petals are dense, velvety, rich reddish-brown in color with burgundy veins along the field and a slightly corrugated edge, the beard is yellow. The flower smells nice. The plant belongs to the highly winter-hardy group and will delight you with long and lush flowering.

  Red ones are one of the most elegant irises

• Vaibrant is a variety of irises for those who love yellow flowers, so magnificent both in the flowerbed and in the photo. The color is uniform, thick, golden-yellow, the petals are strongly corrugated along the edges, and yellow-orange beards are barely noticeable at the base of the follicles. The flower has a light, refined aroma. The plant itself is of excellent quality, tall (from 85 cm), large-flowered, and does not degenerate during the growing season. Blooms early.

  A flower for lovers of sunny irises

• Vizir is a magnificent tall variety with large, solid flowers. The rich palette of petals plays with raspberry-violet, cranberry, and pomegranate shades. The petals are corrugated with “bubbles” along the edge. On bright fouls, an orange beard stands out.

  In the photo - Vizir iris variety

• Champagne Waltz is a tall two-color hybrid of an American origin. The standards are a delicate peach shade with apricot veining, the fouls are white with an apricot-yellow border, low-set. The petals are dense, corrugated, with a velvet texture. The beard is red-orange.

  Border along the edge of the fouls - a new trend in the selection of irises, the Champagne Waltz variety

• Immorality is an amazing white iris, pictured below. Standards, fouls, beard - everything about this flower is pure snow-white, the petals are slightly wavy, with a velvet texture. The height of the peduncle is 75–85 cm. The uniqueness of the variety lies in its remontability. It blooms for the first time in May, and again, under favorable weather conditions, in September. It has good frost resistance.

  Reblooming iris variety Immorality

• Toronto is a tall, mid-early hybrid of an American origin. The flowers are large (ø 13–16 cm), two-color, floating in shape. The inner petals are a warm pinkish-peach color with a wavy edge, the foils are a contrasting dark burgundy tone, turning along the edge into a burgundy-pink “lace” frill. The red-orange beard stands out clearly against the dark foil. Very colorful, elegant flower!

  In the photo - iris variety Toronto

• Super Model is a tall, monochromatic beauty with large lavender flowers. The shape of the flower is orchid-shaped with floating foils, the petals are corrugated, with a fringed edge, decorated with an orange beard with white tips. This variety of iris smells pleasant. Blooms in July, winter-hardy.

  Elegant variety - a real Supermodel

• Super Hero is a real superhero with a cap of large, heavy flowers on a strong, tall peduncle. The crown is formed by white standards with a golden border, the fouls are horizontally located, with an ocher area in the center, turning into dark burgundy, almost black edges. The golden-yellow beard stands out as a bright spot on the petal.

  Two-color variety Superhero

Siberian irises

Our compatriot Siberian iris in the photo looks similar to its bearded relative, but in the structure, agricultural technology and description of the flower it has a number of differences.

1. The shape of the flower is similar, but it is somewhat smaller, without a beard, and the petals are narrower and elongated. Although in fairness it must be said that some modern varieties can compete with beard irises in flower size.
2. The plant grows into large bushes and shoots out a huge number of flower stalks.
3. The foliage of this species is brighter and more elegant and serves as a decoration for the garden even after flowering.
4. The species is extremely hardy, cold-resistant, and more reliable in adverse weather conditions.
5. Unlike the bearded iris, this flower can grow and bloom in the shade.

Unfortunately, Siberian irises have no scent. But this does not detract from the decorative capabilities of the flower and the interest in it from breeders.

Assortment of Siberian irises

Dozens of varieties and hybrids of Siberian irises have been bred around the world to suit every taste, some of which we have collected in this collection with photos and names.

Japanese irises

Sword-shaped irises that grow in Japan and in our Far East are called Japanese. This is not a specific, but rather a collective term. For a long time they were considered unsuitable for cultivation in the northern regions; they were grown in Primorye, the Caucasus, and the Black Sea coast. Breeders are trying to actively promote the crop to the north; more or less frost-resistant varieties have appeared, but in general, the “Japanese” in the middle zone do not have enough heat and light.

The Japanese iris flower is very interesting - large (ø up to 25 cm), similar to a saucer. All 6 lobes are bent horizontally, only the branches of the pistils (styles) with an openwork comb at the end are raised upward. In addition to single-color and two-color varieties, speckled, bordered varieties with contrastingly colored veins are common. Let's give an example of a few of them.

Bulbous relatives of irises

Bulbous xyphiums are flowers very similar to irises. In the English and Dutch traditions they are called bulbous irises.

The main difference is the presence of bulbs instead of rhizomes. Their leaves are narrower, grooved, more like daylilies, the peduncles are thin and tall. The flowers are identical in structure to the cockerels - they consist of 6 lobes; some species have a marigold curved upward on the foils, as can be seen in the photo below.

This is what a bulbous iris looks like

In the southern regions, this flower is cultivated quite successfully, but in the north it does not take root, and even if it blooms in some years, it then withers and disappears.

Another flower that resembles either irises or daylily is the now fashionable alstroemeria.

In the photo - Alstroemeria

This is a South American rhizomatous perennial that grows up to 1 m. The flowers are six-petaled, variegated, multi-colored. The plant is heat-loving, so it can be grown in the garden only in the south, but in the middle zone - only indoors.

Video about types and popular varieties of irises:

Moscow, Russia, on the website from 01/11/2017

Have you read it? Don't forget to rate

ratings, average:

Home page › Forums › Flower garden and landscape › Ornamental plants and care for them › Interesting varieties of bearded irises

This topic has 34 replies, 4 voices, last updated by Maxim Savinov 2 weeks, 3 days. back.

View 10 messages - from 1 to 10 (out of 35 total)

Irises have long gained popularity due to their unusual appearance and unpretentiousness. They practically do not require any maintenance; even an inexperienced gardener can cope with growing them. A lot of varieties of this plant have been developed. In order not to get confused in such diversity, you need to study irises, varieties with photos and names in advance. This will help create a spectacular garden that will be the envy of all your neighbors.

Varieties of irises

Iris is an unpretentious perennial plant that is distinguished by its unusual shape and color of flowers. It is suitable for growing in open areas flooded with sunlight. A distinctive feature of the flowers is their enchanting delicate aroma. Therefore, they are often used in the perfume industry.

Wild irises today can be found in meadows, steppes or on steep cliffs. In greenhouse conditions, about five hundred different varieties have been bred that are suitable for growing in personal plots. They can be divided into several large groups:

• bearded;
• dwarf;
• bulbous;
• Siberian;
• swamp;
• Japanese.

In European countries, it is customary to divide these plants into 10–15 categories. Separately, border, Californian and some other species are distinguished. To decide which of them will take root better on your site, carefully study the irises, their varieties with photos and names.

Bearded irises

Bearded iris is considered one of the most common plant varieties. Its distinctive feature is the presence of fine hairs on the lower petals. They have a more saturated color compared to the general tone of the flower. Among the most spectacular varieties are:

This is just a small part of the variety on the market today. When choosing, pay attention to the fact that the flowers are in harmony with neighboring specimens and fit into the overall design of the site.

The height of such varieties can reach 80 cm, so you should not plant them in close proximity to light-loving low-growing plants.

Dwarf irises

The dwarf iris differs from its fellows in its small stature. The height of the peduncles does not exceed 40 cm. For most varieties this parameter is even 20 cm. They will be an ideal option for decorating small compact flower beds. Among the most popular varieties are:

Dwarf irises thrive in light, moisture-permeable soils. If the soil in your garden is heavy, add sand to it before planting.

Bulbous irises

Everyone is accustomed to the fact that irises are rhizomatous plants. Modern experts have managed to develop several varieties growing from bulbs. They are distinguished by unusually early flowering. They can be compared to snowdrops. As soon as the snow melts, the first flowers appear. There are three main types:

Bulbous irises look good in a flower bed with crocuses, muscari, galanthus and so on. They will be an ideal option for alpine slides.

These varieties can be grown in pots and large flowerpots. They will be an excellent decoration for verandas and gazebos.

Siberian irises

Photos of Siberian irises are impressive. They are distinguished by the extraordinary beauty of their flowers. The value of this species is also that the foliage of the plant has a rich green color throughout the entire season. The most spectacular varieties are:

Such varieties look impressive along the banks of improvised reservoirs, in large rockeries. Groups of such flowers can be used to decorate the lawn, which will make the landscape unusual.

Swamp irises

Swamp iris or iris grows everywhere in our country. The leaves of this species are sword-shaped. Their length can reach two meters. This species does well in partial shade. Therefore, such flowers can be planted along fences or near trees with a not too thick crown. Among the most popular varieties are:

Having studied these varieties of irises with photos and names, we can conclude that they are ideal for group plantings. With help different types Irises can be used to create spectacular flower beds.

Japanese irises

Japanese iris has orchid-shaped flowers. Their size can vary from 15 to 25 cm. In Japan, such plants are planted so that they can be admired from above. From this angle they look most impressive. The plants are large, so when planting between them it is necessary to maintain a distance of at least 30 cm. The most popular varieties:

After studying photos of varieties of irises, you can choose the right planting material suitable for your soil type. If you choose specimens with different flowering periods, you can admire the beauty of the flowers all summer long.

Irises bloom in the garden - video

When choosing bearded irises to grow on your site, first of all, decide on the size. The fact is that these flowers vary in height: there are bearded irises that grow up to 70 cm, and there are also those that rise above the ground no higher than 5 cm. The best varieties of bearded irises must meet certain requirements, about them you You will find out by reading this material.

Medium-sized, tall and miniature bearded irises

Bearded irises are the largest group of irises, consisting of several classes.

Tall bearded irises (TV)- powerful plants with a height of 71 cm with a branched peduncle, many buds and large flowers, sometimes up to 20 cm in diameter. In the Moscow region they bloom from mid-June to early July.

Medium-sized bearded irises (MB) - from 41 to 70 cm in height, are in turn divided into three groups:

• border irises (BB) with a flowering period similar to tall bearded ones, but with a proportionally smaller flower;
• intermedia irises (IB) with a flower size of 10-13 cm and a flowering period in the Moscow region from the beginning of June; not necessarily highly branched, but forming a profusely flowering bush;
• table, or miniature tall bearded irises (MTB) - with a tall thin branched peduncle and relatively small (no wider than 8 cm) flowers, used mostly for bouquets and tables, which is where their name comes from.

Standard Bearded Dwarfs (SDB)- 21-40 cm high, in the Moscow region they bloom from the end of May.

Miniature Bearded Dwarfs (MDB)- the smallest, the height of such bearded irises is 5-20 cm. These flowers bloom very early (in the Moscow region from the first half of May).

Requirements for tall bearded irises

The modern tall bearded iris is a striking flower! Any person who sees it is fascinated by its beauty and is extremely surprised when he learns that growing luxurious irises is no more difficult than any other garden flowers or even vegetables in the garden. Perhaps there are so many erroneous opinions about any crop that many, even very experienced gardeners, are wary of it, usually contrasting new varieties with old ones. And it’s completely in vain: among modern varieties there are plenty of those that can bloom reliably and regularly in the middle zone and even have some advantage in resistance to the adversities of our harsh climate compared to historical varieties. Therefore, it is undoubtedly worth striving to acquire new varieties. But the main advantage of the new varieties is that they are immeasurably more beautiful than the old ones.

The progress in breeding flowers of tall bearded irises is amazing. The main attention is paid to the flower, because even just one flower - whether it grows in the garden or stands in a vase - can captivate the imagination of a gardener and make him fall in love forever. New ones are still appearing color combinations, exquisite color patterns that instantly gain immense popularity. But, despite all the achievements in expanding the color range of irises, the main attention is paid to the quality of the flower.

Flower quality means:

• wide, sometimes interlocking halyards and closed standards at the base, making the flower collected, rounded and expressive;
• the density of the texture of the petals, which ensures resistance to precipitation and a longer lifespan of the flower;
• grace and uniformity of corrugation of shares;
• width, density and expressiveness of the beards.

An example of excellent flower quality is 'Paris Fashion' by Keith Keppel. Giant flowers also require peduncles proportional to their size - tall, strong, resistant to gusts of wind. To ensure that the opening flowers do not interfere with each other, they must be “spaced” on sufficiently long branches, and in order to ensure a long flowering period, there must be a large number of buds in the inflorescence.

Particularly attractive are the so-called exhibition varieties that have 3-5 simultaneously open flowers on the peduncle.

Considerable attention is also paid to the garden attractiveness of the iris - the health of the foliage, the rapid growth of the bush and the representativeness of its flowering, when the optimal number of peduncles on the bush is approximately equal to half the number of leaf fans.

Of particular interest are those varieties whose bushes do not shoot flower stalks simultaneously, but over a period of time, ensuring exceptionally long flowering. Remontant varieties have a long flowering period.

With the correct selection of varieties, the flowering of tall bearded irises lasts for 50 days.

The main requirement for iris varieties for cultivation in the northern regions is growth energy, which makes it possible to compensate for many other shortcomings of the plant. The next most important quality is frost resistance. The ability to withstand low temperatures in winter is related to the rhythm of plant development. Irises, whose growth ends by the end of summer and the leaves die off, overwinter much better and, therefore, their flower buds are not damaged in harsh winters.

Tall bearded irises are a very heat-loving crop. Thus, in the Moscow region and to the north, only 20% of the varieties grow successfully from their total number. Therefore, my advice to amateur gardeners is to be interested first of all in its frost resistance when purchasing.

Resistance to fungal and bacterial diseases is another important quality. Resistance to bacteriosis and heterosporiosis ensures healthy foliage, decorative planting and regular flowering.

The standard planting unit for bearded irises is usually an annual growth of iris rhizomes. In the middle zone they reach acceptable sizes by early August. This is the reason for the recommended planting period - the first half of August, however, good results can be obtained if planted before the beginning of September.

Which rhizomes are best to take for planting: large or small, annual (short) or biennial (long)? The answer to this question depends on your goals: if by all means you want to see an iris flower the next year after planting, choose a large rhizome with a wide fan of 6-8 leaves. If flowering next year is not important to you, but the reliability of overwintering and the survival rate of the plant are paramount, choose a medium-sized one or two-year-old rhizome with a diameter of 2-2.5 cm, with 3-4 leaves.

Agricultural technology for growing bearded irises: planting and care

The agricultural technology for growing bearded irises depends on the purposes of their cultivation, so it is impossible to give any universal scheme. Some grow irises by planting and annually digging up planting material, usually for sale. Others plant irises to decorate the garden in a border, mixborder, rockery or on a rocky hill, where it is advisable not to touch them for several years.

The most important factors for successful growing are light and drainage. Do not forget also that irises are heat-loving plants. The more sun irises receive in the garden, the better they bloom. A little shade in the morning or evening is, of course, acceptable, but only some varieties of irises, such as the intermedia ‘In a Flash’, will withstand more serious shade. Southern slopes are preferable to northern ones; a place near the southern wall of the building would also be good. It is good if the landing site is cleared from the prevailing cold winds.

When the soil is excessively moistened, the respiration of the roots is disrupted and they partially die, which leads to a slowdown in plant development.

Under such conditions, bacterial rot also develops on the rhizomes of irises.

If the soil is sufficiently drained, irises can be planted on a flat surface; if the soil is heavy and clayey, then it is better to plant them on a hill or on ridges. Ridges are also more convenient from the point of view of constructing a winter shelter.

High soil fertility is the key to successful cultivation and productivity of tall bearded irises in central Russia.

Bearded irises do best in light, sandy soils. Loams are also acceptable, but the addition of sand and organic materials (peat, composted sawdust, humus) significantly improves the structure and permeability of the soil, which leads to excellent results. You just need to take into account that to improve the soil to a depth of 20 cm, you will need to add approximately 100 liters of sand per 1 m2 of soil.

The optimal level of soil reaction (pH) is 6.8.

If you intend to grow irises in beds, then their preparation consists of the following operations:

• clearing the area from the roots of perennial weeds;
• delivery of compost or other available organic material to the site;
• leveling organic matter over the area while simultaneously adding wood ash or dolomite flour and mixing it with the soil with a pitchfork or shovel.
• applying mineral fertilizers under the rake: potassium sulfate and superphosphate, as well as ground or colloidal sulfur in an amount of 5-7 g/m2;
• shaping the profile of the ridge and compacting the soil to avoid further subsidence and bulging of newly planted plants. The height of the bed profile after compaction is approximately 7-8 cm;
• delivery of coarse-grained river or washed quarry sand to the ridges in such quantities as to form a layer of approximately 5-7 cm, and leveling it;
• The ridge is ready for planting. To preserve the structure of the ridge, it is convenient to plant bearded irises in the following way: spread the sand slightly by sticking the bayonet of a shovel into it, place the roots of the iris section into the resulting gap, compact the soil around the roots and water the substrate, move it towards the planted iris section so that it is in the layer sand.

The cuttings are planted on the ridge in such a way that the cut part of the rhizome is directed towards the edge of the ridge, and the fan of leaves is directed towards the middle. In this case, the growing roots will be directed towards the center of the ridge, which will make it easier in the future to water the plants into the groove in the center of the ridge.

Irises can be replanted at any time during the growing season. However spring transplant may lead to poor flowering this year. In the middle zone, optimal results are obtained when planting and replanting irises in August: the plants have enough time to take root and gain sufficient weight to fully bloom the next year. Irises planted later, that is, in the fall, usually remain healthy, but do not have time to take root before the onset of cold weather. This can lead to rhizomes sticking out of the ground when the soil freezes. To avoid bulging of the rhizome, additional mulching is required for the winter or simply fixing the rhizome with a suitable object at hand.

A common mistake when planting and caring for bearded irises is over-burying the rhizomes. It is recommended to plant irises so that the back of the rhizome is at the surface of the soil. In the winter, it is better to sprinkle the exposed rhizome with soil, and in the spring it needs to be raked off.

When caring for bearded irises, watering is required in the first weeks after planting the irises for successful rooting. To ensure abundant flowering, adult specimens of bearded irises require watering only when there is insufficient precipitation, especially in May, when the weather is often hot and dry, sometimes in June-July. However, in August, and even more so in September-October, adult bushes no longer need watering. At this time, the plant is preparing for winter, and its growth should not be stimulated.

Irises should be fed both in early spring and 3-4 weeks after flowering. Fertilizing with soluble fertilizers gives a quick effect: in the spring - complex with microelements, in July-August - potassium phosphate.

For the successful cultivation of bearded irises, phosphorus is the most important of the main nutrients; therefore, when preparing a site for irises, it is advisable to fill the soil with superphosphate (100 g/m2) or bone meal (200-300 g/m2). For spring and summer fertilizing, you can use a complex fertilizer with a low nitrogen content, for example, NPK = 6:10:10. The autumn mixture has a ratio of NPK = 0:13:18, it also contains magnesium and elemental sulfur, the latter being 5%. The spring mixture for feeding has the formula NPK=8:37:11.

The best organic fertilizer for iris crops is well-rotted compost.

Bearded irises successfully grow in one place for 4-5 years. The specific timing of bush renewal depends on both the variety and the agricultural technology used. Some time after planting, the iris bush thickens, which ultimately leads to the cessation of flowering. How quickly thickening occurs depends on the multiplication rate of the variety. Some varieties are characterized by vigorous growth, and at the same time are not too demanding on external conditions.

As the bush ages, it is advisable to increase the amount of fertilizing. If these measures do not bring the desired effect, the bush needs to be dug up entirely, the soil should be updated by adding mature compost and phosphorus-potassium fertilizers, and the 3-4 strongest shoots should be planted, shortening the leaves by about 2/3.

Many modern varieties do not need shelter for the winter. If the variety is chosen for the beauty of the flower, but is not winter-hardy enough, additional efforts will be required in preparing for winter. The main problems for irises in winter in the middle zone arise when an ice crust forms on frozen ground without snow, preventing the plants from breathing.

It is convenient to cover irises with spruce branches or oak leaves, which have the property of not caking. To prevent such a frame from getting wet, it must be covered with a non-woven covering material or film - under them the irises will not smear in winter.

Irises overwinter best under dry air cover by first drying the ridge, which usually takes one month. The easiest way to provide protection from rain is to use a dense reinforced film laid on arches or directly on the foliage of irises. The ends of the shelter should be open for free air circulation, and they should be closed for the winter. The estimated construction time for the shelter is late October - early November.

In spring, the film is removed from the shelter as early as possible, immediately after the snow melts, and other material is removed as needed.

Varietal irises are propagated vegetatively, that is, by dividing the rhizomes. To speed up propagation, you need to remove the flower bud located at the base of the fan of leaves in the fall. After this, the plant’s lateral buds begin to grow, which form new powerful shoots in the spring. There is no need to dig up the rhizome to separate them. On a dry sunny day, you need to rake away the ground, tear off the dried and yellowing leaves, and cut the remaining green leaves to the rhizome. The cut must be disinfected and left to dry in the sun. After the wound has healed after a few days, the rhizome needs to be mulched with soil so that the awakening buds can form roots. Often recommended for propagating irises, dividing the rhizome into bud cuttings is much less effective method, since in this case the plant is severely injured and, as a result, flowering occurs much later.

For propagation, dormant buds on 2-3-year-old rhizomes can also be successfully used. To do this, pieces of rhizomes are cut out from the middle of the bush and simply transplanted to a new place.

New varieties of tall bearded irises for the middle zone

The description provides the following data: name of the bearded iris variety, originator, year of registration, characteristics of the flower, flowering period.

Sundress

Pirogov 2000

Golden-smoky top with a lilac touch. Along the white field of the bottom there are purple dots and strokes, a golden-smoky border. Bright yellow pistil ridges glowing in the depths of the flower. Exceptionally vigorous growth and regular abundant and long-lasting flowering. Early.

Queen

Sholupov 2003

Rich purple-violet, with a velvety lobe texture and powerful corrugation. The exhibition peduncle easily holds several simultaneously open flowers. Average flowering time.

Cranberry Sauce

Black 2002

Cranberry South

A silky-brilliant flower with a lilac-crimson tint. Yellow beards highlight the magnificent depth of color. Average flowering time.

Darcy's Choice

Schreiner 2007

Aarsis Choice is a flower of original color with white beards on crimson halyards. Wonderful branched peduncle. Average flowering time.

Dawn then Dusk

Schreiner 2008

Aoun Tu Dusk

A bicolor pink-purple flower that takes on a unique gray hue in acidic soils: unexpected and attractive. Medium late.

Edgefield Glow

Schreiner 2011

Edgefield Glow

An exceptionally bright orange flower with dark tangerine beards. This new variety of bearded irises has incomparable color and excellent growth vigor, unlike other orange forms. Mid-early.

Never Been Kissed

Blyth 2008

Never Vin

Kissed Fashionable reverse: blue top and pure white bottom. Luxurious flower of delicate color. A distinctive feature is the best corrugation to date. Mid-early.

Palace Symphony

Blyth 2007

Palace Symphony

A purple-wine flower with almost black beards and exceptional ruffles. A variety that combines the best features of American and Australian selection. Average flowering time.

Royal Birth

Royal 2003

Royal Burf

Creamy white with golden halyard bases. Dense texture of the flower. Abundant flowering and sustainable growth. Mid-early flowering period.

Undivided Attention

Ernst 2004

Unbiased Attention

Rich pink, warm salmon color, thicker in the center of the flower. Bright coral beards. Abundantly flowering variety. Medium late.

Warranty

T. Johnson 2004

Warranty

A huge soaring purple-black flower with a velvety texture on a tall peduncle. Mid-late flowering period.

The rhizome of this flower is called “orris root”, and its aroma really resembles the faint smell of violets. In this article we will talk about existing types and varieties of irises. You will learn how to properly plant a crop and how to care for it so that its cultivation open ground was successful.

Iris ( Russian name flower - iris) is a rhizomatous perennial with sword-shaped leaves with a waxy coating and thin, fibrous roots.

Irises can be found on many summer cottages. However, not all flower growers know how many varieties of these flowers have been bred by breeders

Multi-colored iris flowers (petal color ranges from white to dark purple), similar in appearance to orchids, have a pleasant faint aroma. Some varieties of garden irises have a “beard” on the lower petals. Flowering of irises begins in May and continues until June: each individual flower remains decorative for about a week. The seeds of the plant ripen in autumn, in triangular capsules that contain from 25 to 45 seeds.

Modern types and varieties of irises are so diverse, beautiful and fragrant that it is difficult to make a choice when growing in open ground in favor of any one variety.

Varieties and varieties of iris

There are main varieties of irises that are grown in summer cottages, in open ground in parks and squares, and used in arranging compositions in landscape design.

Bearded iris

Bearded iris(I. barbata) - this species is in turn divided into three subspecies, depending on the height of the plant:

• low-growing - plant height does not exceed 40 cm;
• medium-sized - plants reach a height of up to 70 cm;
• tall - above 70 cm.

The species received its name for the decorative “beard” that adorns the lower petals of the flower in the middle part. The color of bearded iris flowers varies from pale blue to dark purple. Breeders have developed a huge number of new varieties of bearded iris, including two-colored ones with edged petals. These varieties are very decorative, compact, with large flowers and an exciting aroma.

Iris Russian

Iris Russian(I. ruthenia Ker-Gawler) – forms low dense “pillows” - curtains. Varieties of Russian iris bloom with medium-sized flowers of pale colors. It tolerates short-term soil drying out well. In landscape design, it is used to design rocky hills and rock gardens, where rare watering is required.

Siberian iris

Siberian iris, which is actually called iris, is a tall plant, reaching 1 m. The flowers are rich, purple with shades of blue. Siberian iris and its hybrids bred by breeders are classified as a separate subspecies of irises: limniris. Plants of this subgroup do not have a “beard” on the limb of the petals.

Swamp iris

Swamp iris, or yellow, grows in nature along the banks of lakes, rivers, and along the slopes of wet ravines. It can develop and bloom well on saline soils and at high outside temperatures. These varieties of iris are successfully used in landscape design to decorate artificial reservoirs: outdoor pools, ponds, waterfalls; iris tolerates excessive watering and looks great when planted decoratively.

Iris smooth

Iris smooth(I. laevigata Fisch) – growing at high air humidity; requires abundant watering. Planted near water bodies.

Iris germanica

Iris germanica– with sword-like leaves and flowers on tall, strong peduncles, up to 90 cm long. The plant is suitable for arranging bouquets and is grown for cutting.

Iris dwarf

Iris dwarf– a low plant, reaching a total size of 10 cm. It forms dense clumps when grown in open ground. Small flowers have a variety of colors.

Kaempfer's Iris

Kaempfer's Iris(another name is xiphoid iris) refers to late varieties species of irises. Leaves 30-40 cm high frame the flat flowers of the xiphoid iris. Peduncles reach 60-70 cm.

Japanese iris

Japanese iris- a wide variety of irises, which is divided into subgroups depending on the size of the flower. The cultivation of these varieties is most preferable due to the highly decorative nature of the flowers. Japanese irises often form double flowers at different times (early, mid, late, very late). Japanese iris flowers are painted in all shades of rich purple. Flowers of this subgroup do not tolerate wintering well.

Planting a plant

Irises - planting and caring for plants of all botanical species in open ground is approximately the same.

Foreign breeders have developed varieties of tuberous irises, the cultivation of which is not difficult. These flowers are small in height and have narrow, graceful petals of bright, rich colors. Planting material is sold in the fall; planting is done before winter.

To plant the bulbs, a trench is dug and the excavated soil is mixed with:

• sand;
• double superforsat;
• crushed coal;
• fresh garden soil.

Leave enough space between plants when planting

In the prepared grooves, the bottom of which is sprinkled with sand (you can spill it with a pink solution of potassium permanganate, epin or heteroauxin), the iris bulbs are laid out with the sprout facing up.

Important! Do not bury the bulbs too deep into the ground. Rule: small onion plants are usually planted at a depth of 3 times the height of the bulb.

Planting small-bulbed irises does not require watering; the moisture that was used to water the planting furrow is sufficient. The soil on top needs to be lightly compacted so that birds cannot pull out the bulbs before they take root. Small bulbous irises will begin to bloom next spring.

Growing. Bearded irises

Planting bearded irises requires compliance with certain rules:

Don't forget that bearded irises need to be fed very carefully.

1. Do not add fresh manure, compost or nitrogen fertilizers to the garden bed when planting.
2. Chalk or lime should be added to acidic soil first. Soil acidity should be reduced.
3. It is not allowed to plant iris rhizomes in dense, compacted soil. Preliminary digging of the soil using a spade and adding sand will make the soil more suitable for growing your irises in open ground.
4. The rhizomes of bearded irises are not buried in the soil: the buds should be at the level of the top layer of soil.

Proper care

Iris in landscape design

Very often, iris is used when planting in parks, squares, and when decorating areas in landscape design. The huge variety of varieties and species, as well as the high stability of the plant itself, allow the wider use of this crop for landscaping. Curtains of irises look great different varieties on the lawn carpet.

“Fields” of irises of different colors look very beautiful

Mono-plantings of iris crops decorate urban areas and do not require serious care. This crop has the advantage of being planted for many years in one place and maintaining a decorative appearance.

Caring for irises: video

Varieties of irises: photo

The most common flower among gardeners is the iris. It amazes with its beauty and diversity of species.

They love irises because when they bloom, they have decorative look. Flowers decorate the home area all season long.

Iris is called Iris because it comes from the iris family. The Land of the Rising Sun, Japan, is considered the birthplace of the iris. The flower has different shapes and shades. Therefore, translated from Greek it means rainbow.

There are more than 700 species of this plant in the world. In the photo of irises you can see this diversity.

Description

The inflorescence of the iris is different from many plants. Its structure resembles an orchid, as it lacks sepals and petals. The buds are most often single and slightly fragrant.

The bottom of the bud forms a tube that contains nectar. Stems can be either single or in bunches, simple or branched. The leaves are located at the base of the stem. They have a flat and xiphoid shape.

Irises bloom at the end of May. They are well resistant to temperature changes, however, they do not take root in soil that is full of moisture.

This flower grows best on slopes. In the same area, the plant can grow without replanting for about 7 years.

Varieties of irises amaze with their diversity. By color you can determine which variety a particular iris belongs to.

Growing method

Under no circumstances should bulbous irises be planted in the shade. Since they prefer to grow in the sun, and the soil should not be oversaturated with moisture. The soil prepared for planting should not contain large quantities of fertilizers, and humus should not be added. Irises are planted in light soil.

It is important that the flowers tolerate frost well. Planting and caring for irises is a fairly simple process.

The only thing is to tie them up when they become tall. Since strong gusts of wind can break the stem.

Take a closer look at irises, planting and care in open ground. A week before the intended planting, you need to prepare the soil. The selected plot of land is dug up and a small amount of fertilizer is added. It is poured to a depth of 10 cm and then moistened with water.

New tubers are planted in the spring, and they can be propagated only after the irises have bloomed. As a rule, this happens at the end of July.

Iris propagation

A flower has a root and a rhizome. In this case, these concepts are completely different. Iris roots are unable to regenerate. That is, a new flower cannot grow from them. But cutting from bunches of rhizomes can produce a new plant.

It is advisable to divide the iris every three years. The best period for this is spring. To divide you need a knife, garden shears and charcoal.

Using a knife, the tuber is divided into several parts, each containing several bunches of rhizomes. Excess leaves and roots are cut off with scissors. The cut area is sprinkled with charcoal.

The resulting cutting must be disinfected so that unwanted pathogens are killed. To do this, you will need a disinfectant solution for flowers, in which you need to soak the cutting for about half an hour.

Afterwards it is placed in the sun, where it dries for three days. Planting irises in the ground occurs superficially. So that part of the plot is not covered with soil.

After planting, watering is carried out. Let us remember that the plant does not like very wet soil. Therefore, watering is best done during the period when the plant is blooming.

This should be done in the evening, and water should not get on the buds.

Irises need to be prepared for winter. Therefore, at the first negative temperatures, the foliage is cut in half using garden shears. Then, as the leaves begin to turn yellow, they are cut off.

In order for the plant to better withstand cold weather, the area is sprinkled with peat. Remove it after warm weather arrives.

The flower must be protected from pests and diseases must be prevented. To do this, stores sell special mixtures that need to be sprayed on the plant.

Blooming iris looks great in landscape design. Many gardeners love him for this.

At correct landing and care, the flowers will delight you for many years. Since almost all flower varieties are perennial plants.

Photos of irises

The genus of irises has six species: filamentous, rush, Tangier, broadleaf, Boissier and common. The iris began its majestic march from the Mediterranean countries. Having settled here, people from different countries attributed different meanings to irises. So, in Japan, iris was always present at the Boys' Festival. It symbolized the symbol of courage. As a sacrifice to the Gods, the Romans dipped a flower into a glass of wine. The Egyptians considered the iris a symbol of eloquence. And today the iris serves as a decoration for anyone!

Residents of the Middle East, in moments of grief, in memory of the dead, planted white irises on the graves of their relatives. For Christians, the iris symbolizes the virgin birth. This symbol is often found in images of the Virgin Mary.

Description of iris

The flower got its name in honor of the goddess Iris for its variegated color. Translated from Greek, “iris” means “rainbow”, and the scientist Hippocrates gave this beautiful name.

The first mention of the iris can be found on a fresco that was discovered on the island of Crete. It depicts a priest surrounded by beautiful flowers. Scientists have determined the age of this fresco; it is about 4000 years old.

The Etruscans were fascinated by the blooming irises that grew in huge numbers around their settlement. The Romans decided to name their city Florence, which means “blooming”. This plant also decorated the coat of arms of Florence.

Already in the 15th century, royal courtiers appreciated the aroma of irises. The roots were used as a natural flavoring in dressing rooms. And perfumers have learned to highlight essential oil from flowers and rhizomes.

Slavic peoples widely used shades of irises and their bizarre forms in folk art. Clothes, dishes, and homes were decorated with images of flowers. True, they called it differently, tenderly and affectionately: iris, cockerel, perunika, pikulnik.

Botanical characteristics

Irises are rhizomatous plants. The flower stalks are annual and have six petals. The three outer petals are horizontal and turned down. The inner petals are connected into a tube and arranged vertically.

The color of the inner petals differs from the outer ones. Typically, irises have single flowers, but they can also be collected in inflorescences. Fragrant, large flowers excite the imagination with their bizarre shapes.

In nature they are found with white, yellow, pink, blue, blue and purple petals in different shades of the rainbow. Iris leaves are narrow and flat, light green in color. They are located in a bunch at the base of the peduncle.

Magic of flowers. Irises flowers

Types and varieties

Root irises are conventionally divided into two groups - bearded and non-bearded.

They were called so because they have a shaggy edge on their petals. In order not to take away the reader’s precious time, we will leave the names of the numerous varieties of bearded irises for botanists. For lovers, it is enough to know that all bearded dogs are classified according to their size.

Bearded irises

The Germanic iris is a very common species among hundreds of different types of bearded iris. Gardeners widely use the following varieties to decorate their plots:

1. Baltic Sea is an iris with heavily ruffled blue petals and a blue beard.
2. Bewilderbest - a flower with ruffled cream, burgundy or red petals, trimmed with white or yellow stripes and strokes.
3. Acoma is a popular American iris, blue or cream in color with a lavender border.

Non-bearded irises include many species. The most popular of them delight the eye of flower lovers:

Siberian iris has 1000 varieties of different shades from blue to purple:

• white - Snow Queen,
• pink lavender - Imperial Opal, height 80 cm,
• yellow with white border - Bets and Shuga.

The lack of aroma is the only thing that upsets the Siberian iris.

Japanese iris flowers are a flower that visually resembles orchids. Lush, double, large flowers reach a diameter of up to 25 cm. Disadvantage: afraid of frost.

Advice to gardeners living in the middle zone to purchase the following varieties: “Vasily Alferov” - a non-double ink-colored iris; "Solveig" - iris of a delicate lilac color; "Nessa-No-Mai" - iris with large flowers(up to 23cm) purple with white markings.

Iris spuria is a large, frost-resistant iris that is also not afraid of drought. The most beautiful flower of this species is Lemon Touch, lemon or yellow in color with a lace border. Stella Irene is an iris, 90cm high, purple-black with a small golden signal.

Swamp iris or false calamus. It differs significantly from other species in that it grows in moist soil. A very popular variety for decorating ponds. The main shade of flowers of this variety is yellow.

Flowers are also classified according to color:

• monochrome,
• two-color,
• iridescent (transition from one shade to another),
• two-tone (shades have different shades of the same color),
• variegata (the lower lobes are red-brown and the upper lobes are yellow),
• amena (the entire upper part of the flower is white),
• bordered (flowers have a contrasting border)

Planting, care and cultivation of irises

Most often, irises are planted either in spring or autumn. Experts recommend dividing and replanting irises as soon as they bloom. This must be done so that the plant has time to take root before frost.

In order for irises to bloom magnificently, they need to be replanted every 3-4 years. Siberian irises require replanting once every ten years.

Bearded irises are more capricious. For good growth and flowering, it is recommended to fulfill the following important conditions:

1. Place the plant in a well-lit place.
2. Protect from drafts.
3. It should be planted on a hill so that there is an outflow of melt water.
4. Ensure good drainage.
5. For fertilizer use potassium-phosphorus fertilizers.
6. Treat the soil with herbicides to kill weeds.
7. It is not recommended to fertilize the soil with manure.
8. Add chalk or wood ash to acidic soil.
9. Add clay soil to sandy soil.
10. Add peat and sand to the loam.

Planting flowers in spring

First of all, holes are prepared for planting seedlings. Bearded irises are planted in the sand in a shallow hole. The rhizome is laid out horizontally and covered with earth so that the upper part remains above the level. If the root system is completely covered with soil, the process of decay may begin. Water generously.

Beardless species are buried several centimeters deep. Additionally, it is recommended to mulch with peat or fallen pine needles. The distance between the holes should be at least one and a half meters.

Before planting, it is necessary to examine the seedling. Rotten roots should be removed. It is also recommended to shorten long roots. Be sure to disinfect the root system in a solution of potassium manganese and treat it with growth stimulants.

Autumn planting

Autumn planting of irises follows the same rules as spring planting. Recommended time - August-September. Although experts believe that the earlier you plant or replant, the greater the chance for the plant to take root and get stronger before the coming winter.

Use a pitchfork to dig up a bush, divide it into one-year-old sections with a leaf blade, shorten, clean and treat the root system in the same way as during spring planting. Before planting in the fall, gardeners recommend drying the bush for several hours in the sun.

When preparing the holes, the growth of the seedling is taken into account. For low plants, a distance of 15 cm is recommended, for iris of medium height - 20 cm, and for tall ones - 50 cm.

Caring for irises

Watering

Irises are those plants that love warmth and light. You need to be very careful with watering, especially during the formation of buds. During this important time, there should be enough water and it should be supplied regularly. The rest of the time, it is recommended to water irises as needed.

Top dressing

The main rule is that it is forbidden to fertilize irises during flowering. But basically, for good growth, plants receive a sufficient amount of nutrition during the preparation of the land in the spring. If for some reason there is a need to feed the iris, then potassium-phosphorus fertilizers are used for this purpose. They are applied at the root during growth.

Weed control

Weed control requires great care. Since the root system develops horizontally and is very close to the surface, then destroy weeds You only need your hands. To allow air to reach the roots, it is necessary to loosen the soil. This must be done very carefully.

To protect your pet from pests, it is necessary to remove wilted flowers. Often, this is a breeding ground for pests.

Pests and diseases of iris flowers

In order for our irises to delight us with their beautiful appearance longer, it is advisable to constantly monitor the condition of the flowers throughout the growing season. Timely assistance to the iris will help eliminate the problem and save the rest of the bushes.

When a plant is affected by fusarium (a type of rot), the iris is dug up and destroyed. The remaining specimens are poured over the roots and into the root with a solution of foundation (according to the instructions). It is also used for preventive purposes. The root is treated with it before planting.

For spots of all types, use a one percent solution of Bordeaux mixture. Iris bushes are sprayed with it.

Slugs. To reduce the number of these pests, it is necessary to place wet rags or large burdock leaves between the iris bushes. Slugs use these items for shelter. They need to be collected together with the slugs and destroyed. You can also use a simpler method. In dry weather, in the morning or evening, metaldehyde is scattered in granules (take 30-40g per 10 square meters).

How to store?

Dug up irises are stored in cold and dry rooms. The roots are dried well, each root is wrapped in paper or cloth, and placed in a box. In the box, the bags are sprinkled with sawdust. The box is placed on a loggia or balcony. This is how bearded irises are stored.

Looking at the magnificent colors of irises, you begin to enjoy life. The simplicity, unpretentiousness and beauty of these flowers have always been interpreted as loyalty, sincerity and reliability.

All about irises flowers - video