IRIS CULTURE 
The Iris is one of the most beautiful yet easiest 
flowers to grow. By careful selection of different 
iris one can have a succession of bloom extending 
over a six months’ period. The wide variety of colors 
and various heights offer many intriguing possibili- 
ties in garden arrangements. 
SOIL CONDITIONS 
The Iris thrives in almost any class of well 
drained soil; however, a slightly alkaline soil is 
preferable to one on the acid side. 
FERTILIZING 
Bone meal is recommended by many as being 
the best fertilizer. In sandy, porous sails, especially 
in Southern California and the warmer climates, 
phenomenal growth and bloom may be accom- 
plished by digging in well rotted manure a week 
or two before planting. In most soils, however, iris 
will thrive with little or no fertilizer. 
WATER 
When rhizomes are first set out they should be 
well watered until established, but watering during 
the heat of the day should be avoided. On estab- 
lished plants excessive summer watering causes the 
plant to go to roots and foliage at the expense of 
blooms. 
SPACING AND DEPTH PLANTING 
In warm climates it is best to cover the rhizomes 
with at least % inch of soil. If planted much deeper, 
however, poorer bloom will result. In setting out 
new iris rhizomes may be set in rows as little as 12 
inches apart, providing the iris all point in the same 
direction. The rows, however, should be from 30 to 
36 inches apart. 
Another good arrangement for garden effect is 
to plant three rhizomes of the same kind in a clump, 
with each clump allowing about 24 inches be- 
tween clumps. 
Iris may be planted at almost any time during 
the year. Do not cut back foliage except in trans- 
planting. 
