I removed all the white stuff including the dirt and mulch it was attached to and soaked the remaining ground with a 25% bleach solution. I dug up my irises for good measure. The irises did not have any white stuff growing on them, but I have them soaking in a 1 part bleach 6 part water solution and am planning to replant them at the end of the day. And I also soaked my hand shovel in bleach afterwards.

If I am doing anything wrong by using all this bleach or anyone has any great advice for the powdery white stuff problem would love some feedback.

Thank you,
quiltingfox

Hi Quilt!

In doing a bit of searching on bleach solution, I saw solutions mentioned of 9 or 10 parts water to 1 part bleach, so you might want to dilute that a bit.

I don't know that it is necessary, or helpful, or if the stronger solution might be harmful.

the flowerbed I have beneath a large oak tree which contains my irises
My first thought/concern, was whether or not these were getting enough sun.

I'm sure someone will be by shortly addressing your concerns a lot better than my rambling...

Sue

I wouldn't leave them in that bleach wash very long. I would think that a good, thorough dip would be all that is required, and then let them dry out good before planting them back. By all means, plant them where they will get sun, at least for 6 hours. We have had 10 inches of rain here from "Fay" and I've been watching the iris, they don't like that much water.