Description
Dutch Iris Florist Mixed (Iris × hollandica)
Dutch Iris Florist Mixed, native to the Mediterranean, is a bulbous perennial from the Iridaceae family, ideal for growing for bouquets and cut flower displays. This vibrant selection of tall-stemmed irises features blooms in shades of blue, purple, white, and yellow, perfect for creating striking floral arrangements. Thriving in full sun to partial shade, they bloom in late spring, making them a florist’s favourite. Low-maintenance and long-lasting, they bring timeless beauty to both gardens and floral designs.
Benefits of Growing Dutch Irises:
- Easy to Grow: Suitable for gardeners of all levels due to their low-maintenance needs.
- Versatile: Perfect for garden beds, pots, and containers, adaptable to various settings.
- Naturalising: These flowers multiply and return year after year in suitable climates.
- Great Cut Flowers: Excellent for floral arrangements, with blooms lasting 5-7 days.
- Pollinator Friendly: Attracts bees and beneficial insects, supporting biodiversity.
Suitable Climates Across Australia
Dutch Irises are highly adaptable and can be grown in cool to subtropical climates. They thrive in cool to temperate regions, flourishing with protection from frost during their initial planting period. Once established, they are frost-tolerant and continue to thrive year after year. In warmer climates, store bulbs in a cool, well-ventilated room to maintain dormancy until planting time.
When to Plant
- Best Planting Time: Autumn is the best time to plant Dutch Iris bulbs across all climates. Plant when the soil has cooled sufficiently but before winter to help settle the bulbs in before spring.
How to Plant
- Location: Choose a spot with full sun to partial shade, ensuring the plants receive at least six hours of daily sunlight. In warmer climates, provide partial shade to protect the plants and shelter from strong winds.
- Soil Preparation: Ensure the soil is well-draining, slightly acidic to neutral. Amend heavy soils with organic matter to improve drainage.
- Planting Depth and Spacing: Plant bulbs 10-15 cm deep, spaced 10-15 cm apart, with the pointed end facing up.
- Watering: Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil. Only water again once foliage appears.
Aftercare
- Watering: Water regularly during the growing season, especially in dry spells, but avoid overwatering to prevent bulb rot. Allow soil to dry out between waterings. Once the plant begins to die back in summer, reduce watering and stop once it enters dormancy.
- Mulching: Apply a light mulch layer to help retain moisture, regulate temperature, and prevent weed growth.
- Fertilising: Use blood and bone fertiliser at planting or, if soil is poor, apply when foliage emerges.
- Deadheading: Remove spent blooms to encourage new flowers and prevent seed formation, which directs energy back to the bulb.
- Trimming: Allow the foliage to die back naturally after flowering to help the bulb store nutrients for the next season.
Division
Dutch Irises can be left undisturbed for years, but they should be lifted if summers are particularly wet to prevent bulb rot.
Pests and Diseases
Dutch Irises are relatively pest- and disease-resistant but may encounter some issues:
- Slugs and Snails: Can damage young foliage. Use organic repellents or beer traps to control them.
- Aphids: Spray with insecticidal soap or use natural predators like ladybugs.
- Fungal Diseases: Ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues like Botrytis blight.
- Bulb Rot: Prevent by planting in well-drained soil and avoiding overwatering.
Caution: Harmful if eaten
Dutch Irises are mildly toxic if ingested. Keep them out of reach of pets and children. The bulbs contain compounds that can cause gastrointestinal upset, with symptoms including nausea, vomiting, and abdominal discomfort. Always wear gloves when handling the bulbs to avoid skin irritation. If ingestion occurs, seek medical attention promptly.
Supplied as dormant bulbs.