Need help with choosing Irises

19 years ago

I need some help with choosing Irises. I am a complete newbie in growing Irises. I have a very sunny and hot bed (West) that get full sun from 10 am until the sun set. The soil had been clay but we have amended the soil significantly with compost. I never had the soil tested so not sure it lacks anything. Currently I have shrubs, perennials and roses and they are doing well. I need to have some tall, sun loving perennials (3 - 4ft) that bloom in late spring, early summer. So I thought Irises fit the bill. Years ago, I had one and I love the flowers. I am looking for Irises that are relatively easy to care for and bloom reliably. I was at Schreiner and completely overwhelmed so suggestions would be much appreciated. Thanks

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Comments (5)

iris_gal
19 years ago
Here's a link to the top 100 iris 2002.

Here is a link that might be useful: http://wpsco.org/favorite.htm
shapiro
19 years ago
Hello, StJamesB: Siberian irises are completely "no care" but their drawback is a short bloom period. The tall beardeds are gorgeous but they need a bit more attention. Be guided by your own tastes, colour preferences and so on. Enjoy!
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stjamesb
Original Author
19 years ago
What I was hoping to find out is if there are particular tall bearded Irises that are known to be resistant to borers and such. I don't mind picking Japanese beetles by hand from roses, the ones that slither that I don't really want to touch. From what I read about tall bearded ones, it seems that sooner or later they will be get borers, unless I resort to chemical warfare. Hmm. I wasn't worried about the colour really because there are so many and I would find something that work. I was more worry about borers and thrips. So maybe Siberian ones are the way to go. With the short bloom period, can someone tell me how short is short? and who are the reputable sources for Siberian Irises online? Thanks.
gmason
19 years ago
Denise at Snowpeak has some nice Siberians as does Aitkens. Butter and Cream is a short Siberian, but most are around 3 feet tall. I would email them for suggestions.
rblegend
19 years ago
What part of South Jersey are you in?
I may be moving to Tx - could help you get a start on iris!
Rae Ann