Dutch Iris

The Dutch Iris are a true bulb and easy to grow in the UK. Planted in clumps in the garden or in containers they require little care and the commonly grown blue and yellow varieties provide a magical lift to the border in spring to summer.

Planting Dutch Iris

As these are a true bulb they are a little easier to plant and establish than rhizomatous forms.

Planted in blocks of solid colour or in mixed groups they provide a little height in the border as well as making great cut flowers.

How to Grow Dutch Iris

These plants can reach a height of around .5m so consider position when planting. Best planted in autumn before the soil cools, this allows then to send down some roots before winter sets in.
Dutch Iris require a well drained soil and a position in full sun in the UK, although some afternoon shade is OK.
Before planting dig the soil over well and add some well rotted compost and other soil amendment as needed. AT this stage check the drainage, is poor then consider raising the garden bed a little before planting.
Plant at a depth of 7cm (3 inches) deep and around 10cm apart for a good solid display. Pointy end up please.
Water in well with a liquid seaweed fertiliser. Generally not or little extra water will be required except in very dry periods.

Dutch Iris Varieties

Basically we are dealing with colours when it comes to varieties of Dutch Iris. They are all hybrids of Iris xiphium and the 'Spanish Iris' species they are sometimes called Iris ?� hollandica as the true parentage is a little 'lost' in many cases.

So named cultivars such as the popular blue form 'Blue Star' the yellow 'Golden Harvest' and the purple 'Imperator' are all readily available. White varieties such as 'White Excelsior' are also for sale.

A deep blue plant with contrasting yellow markings on the falls 'Blue Magic' is very popular at present. If you like pink you could look for 'Rosario' while 'Eye of the Tiger' with its maroon falls and blue flags is an outstanding deeper coloured form.

Care Summary

Keep the area well weeded
Watch for snails and slugs
Allow foliage to die back before removing

Problems

Not Flowering
Generally this means not enough sun or to much fertiliser, however if this is the first years planting you may have bulbs that ate to small to flower.
Also overcrowding
Spots on foliage
This can be 'Ink Disease', if the spots are widespread and brown coloration is also present.