HARDY IRISES. 



465 



will grow anywhere, even under trees, is another ; but they will flower 

 only, or only flower well, where and when the greatest amount of sun- 

 shine and free air has been attained. I know of no plant of equal 

 possibilities which gives so poor a reward for the space it takes up as 



Fig. 145 Iris Vartaxi. 



a clump of Bearded Iris let alone on a shady border since — the memory 

 of the oldest inhabitant ; and I know of no plant giving a richer 

 treat if it may receive proper treatment itself. Food is the first great 

 question. An Iris rhizome is a hungry thing, and requires a square meal 

 each year to grow up to blooming size. This may take the form of 



