Kathy Steel, Flamborough Horticultural Society

Beard or no beard?

While men and women may debate the pros and cons of this issue, there is really no question when it comes to irises. Bearded irises are always attractive.

Bearded irises are those lovely iris flowers that have a fuzzy growth on the downward-facing flower petals, appropriately labelled ‘falls’. Some other parts of the intriguing flower anatomy include flounces, horns, spoons, and hafts. While these parts may be of interest to a true iris aficionado, the average gardener can appreciate the beauty and fragrance of these delightful flowers without concern for anatomical details.

Irises come in all colours of the rainbow. In fact, the genus name ‘iris’ comes from the Greek word for rainbow. Flowers may be a single colour, or contain variations of one or several colours. The fuzzy beard may match the colour of the fall, or brightly contrast with it. The beard not only makes the flower more interesting to humans, but it helps guide pollinators to the sweet nectar inside the flower.

Easy to grow, bearded irises thrive in hot, dry conditions that provide at least six hours of sunlight each day. They require well-drained soil, and will likely rot if the soil remains wet. Irises are not difficult to plant, as long as you use the right technique to avoid burying the rhizomes too deeply.

Bearded irises will earn their place in your garden. You can choose from a vast array of colours to complement or contrast with surrounding plants, as well as a wide range of heights. From miniature dwarf varieties (under eight inches) to those classed as tall varieties (two to three feet), you can certainly find perfect additions for every garden, whether it is a low rockery or a tall perennial border.

When the flowers have faded, the sturdy, spiky foliage provides an impressive counterpoint to surrounding foliage.

Irises are spring bloomers, with some varieties flowering earlier than others. With a bit of planning you can enjoy a succession of iris blossoms from April to June. And there is a little known secret that will delight you with a second bloom in the fall.

Secret

The secret will be revealed at the next meeting of the Flamborough Horticultural Society on Wednesday, February 15 at 7:30 p.m., Strabane United Church, Brock Road, just north of 8th Concession West.

Ann and Bob Granatier, owners of Trails End Iris Gardens, which grows and sells award-winning iris varieties as well as new introductions, will share their expertise on how to plant, care for and divide iris, and introduce us to some of the exciting varieties that are available. Guests are cordially welcome to join us to meet and mingle with other like-minded gardeners.

Kathy Steel is the Publicity Chair for the Flamborough Horticultural Society, which meets on the third Wednesday of the month. For more information on the society, visit our web site at gardenontario.org, e-mail bliehor@yahoo.com or call 905-689-8621.