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ir 



CHAPTER VI 



Planting 



I*%HE PLANTING of the Iris is a sim- 

 ple matter, as it has but few requirements; 

 but these should be observed. 



WHERE TO PLANT. The Iris is a sun lover and 

 grows most luxuriantly and flowers most abundantly 

 in full exposure to the sun. It will grow well and 

 flower to some extent in partial shade if normal moist- 

 ure is available, but the quantity of flowers it will 

 produce will usually be in proportion to the amount 

 of sunshine it receives. In dense shade it is usually 

 flowerless. The germanicse, especially Florentina, are 

 about the best for shady places. An Iris blooming 

 in the shade usually keeps its flowers in good condition 

 longer than it would in full sunshine. 



The Iris does well in a dry situation where most 

 plants would perish of drought, and its ability to 

 withstand heat and drought is one of its most valuable 

 characteristics. 



Good drainage is essential. A moist soil suits the 

 Iris admirably if the drainage is good, but in the ab- 

 sence of drainage much moisture will cause decay. 

 If the drainage is poor, sloping beds, mounds or, 

 preferably, ridges should be made for the plants. 

 Preferably, if the situation permits, the planting should 



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