You have the right idea. Irises should be divided about a month after they bloom. I guess it would be okay to dig up irises that aren't going to bloom anyway, like this person with the dwarf iris did. But every book I have ever read on iris culture recommends waiting at least 4 weeks after they bloom.

Nothing like someone putting the pressure on you to get out the trowel, eh??? :-) Try not to think about it too much and enjoy your blooms.

I found this webpage recently and there is some good basic information about digging and dividing irises along with some little Windows media videos. Gardening by the Yard has Ray Schreiner of Schreiner's Iris Gardens of Salem Oregon showing how to divide and replant, etc.

Here is a link that might be useful: Dividing irises-Gardening by the Yard

You can dig immediately after bloom without damaging the plant in any way, and that's what I recommend you do in this case. Just tell the trader that you don't want to disturb impending bloom, but you'll get the iris dug for him as soon as bloom is finished.

Laurie

Thanks! I'll tell the lady that we have to wait until they are done blooming and I'll dig it up right away and call her when I'm going to do that so she can get them and plant them.

She didn't dig up the dwarf Iris ...she bought it! LOL I don't know if she intends to give me more, but she gave me one plant, so one for one for now I guess. She is suppose to come by today so I'll find out when she does I guess. LOL My husband talked to her and instead of him calling me to the front yard to talk to her, he just took the Iris and said OK. LOL

Thanks again,~Claire