Qrmjl 
CULTIVATION 
Most irises will succeed well in any type of soil, from almost 
pure sand to stiff clay. When one may choose, a medium-heavy, 
fairly well-enriched soil is to he preferred. A heavy soil may he 
improved hy the addition of sand, sifted coal ashes, wood ashes, 
gypsum or pulverized limestone. For light, sandy soils inclined 
to he too porous or open, gypsum or limestone is effective. When 
it comes to drainage the iris is the most particular of plants so 
that thorough drainage is the first essential of iris growing. 
Bearded irises should he planted almost on the surface, 
Japanese irises and other beardless types somewhat deeper hut 
not deep and hulhous irises from three to four inches. They may 
be planted at any season of the year when not in bloom al¬ 
though the time usually recommended is July, August and 
early September. 
