Van Dycks

Most bearded Iris need to be divided every 3-5 years.

A. Prune Iris in late summer or early fall when the foliage starts to fall over (if this has not been done earlier). With a sharp knife, cut the foliage 8-10" above the soil level. Trim the plant into a fan shape.

B. Carefully dig up the old clumps. Divide rhizomes with a sharp knife. To avoid spreading disease, dip the knife in rubbing alcohol or a 20% solution of household bleach between each cut. Discard the oldest (center) part of the rhizome. Check for evidence of disease or borers. Destroy (do not compost) any infested rhizomes.

C. Make sure each new division has a strong root section and a single fan of leaves. Dust the cut surface with powdered sulfur and allow to dry for 1-2 days. The sulfur acts as a fungicide and helps avoid problems with disease and pests.

D. Replant the horizontal rhizome with the top 1/3-1/2 of the rhizome showing above the soil. Plant with the fan of the leaves pointing in the direction you want the plant to grow.