Sometimes the seed coats are kind of hard and woody. If you nick them with a file or hand pruners, it allows the seed to take up water faster and to germinate more rapidly. Also, LA iris are semi-aquatic, so seeds can never be allowed to dry out after planting; soaking them overnight before sowing won't hurt, either. Hope that helps!

Just wanted to chime in and say that that's a very pretty picture. Love the plummy color against the bluish leaves.

Thank you for the help. Jane

Harvest your seed pod when it begins to turn a bit yellow. In my area (New Orleans), I would immediately open the pod and plant the individuals seeds in a pot (of garden soil or a potting mixture). I would cover the seeds with 3/4 inches of the soil, and put them in a cool place and keep watered. They would begin to germinate when we begin to get cool nights (October or November). In your area, you might want to keep them protected until spring and then set them out. I don't really know when to expect germination in your area. The seeds will remain viable for a couple of years provided that they are not hollowed out by insects. It's important for this reason to keep them covered with soil. Good luck.

Here is a link that might be useful: Zydeco Louisiana Iris Garden