How to grow Iris reticulata
Few plants bloom as early, with intensity and vibrance, as this beauty, named after the Greek rainbow goddess and messenger of the Gods.
Exquisite and dainty with intricate markings and delicate fragrance. A February delight, the saturated, jewel-tones will be unrivalled as they light up your garden.
The object of many botanical artists for centuries, watch with intrigue as the blooms gently unfold, often above a blanket of snow into spring.
Key Information
Soil pH
Position
Hardiness
Where & when to plant Iris reticulata
Position Full sun to part shade
Soil Well-drained
Flowering Late winter to early spring
Hardiness Hardy
Tolerating a little shade, Iris reticulata prefer to grow in a sunny spot. Being petite at 15cm, they lend themselves to the front or a border, a rockery and containers.
Plant in autumn before the first frosts arrive, 6-8cm deep in well-drained soil, adding grit to your potting compost, or in the base of the holes.
How to plant Iris reticulata
Place in pots or planting holes, pointed end upward, around 8cm apart, covering over with soil before watering. Take care not to overwater thereafter to prevent the bulbs from rotting.
Adding a layer of grit to the soil surface will discourage slugs from new shoots, while remaining moisture and preventing pesky weeds.
What to plant with Iris Reticulata
Marvellous on their own, or as an early-flowering storey of a bulb lasagne.
Combining well with other low growing spring beauties such as Snowdrops or Crocus, early pollinators will enjoy seeking out the nectar rich centres. Polyanthus, Violas, Cyclamen and Primroses all compliment Iris reticulata, creating spring carpet colour.
How to care for and Propagate Iris reticulata
Grown in the ground, rainfall should be sufficient watering in most seasons but ensure the soil in your pots does not dry out.
Deadhead as the blooms fade but leave foliage to die back naturally, ensuring as many nutrients and as much energy as possible are stored within the bulb for the following year. An established, mature clump can be lifted and split into smaller sections to be replanted.
An autumn mulch of leaf mould, or homemade compost will keep the soil healthy and help promote a good show the following year.
