Iris Sovereign Crown - Tall Bearded Iris

Do you have a very sunny location, rather dry in the summer?
This is the ideal location for irises! In the shade, they grow but do not flower. They are hardy and do not need winter protection. Well-drained soil is perfect, even dry, chalky, or stony. Soil that is too wet promotes rotting of the rhizome. Plant from July to September to give the rootstocks enough time to grow and develop new roots before winter. They should be planted as soon as they are purchased for the best results. Plan to divide the irises every 4 years or so to give them fresh soil. They have strong growth and require space to develop and flower well. Plant with a spacing adapted to the size and vigour of the variety: about 34-50 cm (13-20in) for tall ones. Always take into account the direction of growth of the rootstocks by arranging them in a star shape, with buds and leaves facing outward, and spacing them well away from other varieties so they have room to grow.

Planting

Dig a hole that is wide and deep enough. Make a conical mound of soil on which to place the rhizome and spread out the roots. Cover the roots. It is important that the rhizome is level with the surface of the soil. It should not be planted in a dip (risk of rot). Anticipate that the soil will settle and the iris will sink. In clayey or moist soil, the rhizome can even be elevated on a slight mound. To make the soil cling to the roots, lightly firm and water abundantly immediately after planting. Water 2-3 times if necessary until it takes root.

Maintenance:

Keep the soil free of weeds by shallow hoeing, taking care not to damage the rhizomes or roots. Weeds shade the irises, retain moisture (causing rot), and attract slugs. Similarly, remove dry leaves. If they are diseased (reddish-edged spots of heterosporiosis), we recommend burning them. Remove faded flowers.