IRIS AS A CUT FLOWER 
Interest in the iris is increasing in the United States. This 
flower has developed tremendously in the last one hundred 
years. It is the most original and distinct flower of the temper- 
ate zone ... the flower of individuality. It increases readily, 
flowers generously, easily adapting itself to its surroundings. 
Iris as a cut flower has great possibilities. Contrary to 
the general belief, it can be arranged in endless attractive ways 
and merits as much care in this respect as is accorded to other 
varieties of flowers. No flower, least of all the iris, should be 
placed haphazardly in vase or jar. In arranging large jars full, 
use the full length stem and put one flower in at a time. 
Do not crowd as you will lose the charm and symmetry of each 
flower stalk. Bouquets should be made of one color or of 
flowers of the same intensity of color rather than of flowers of 
great contrast. 
Iris may be made into smaller bouquets for table use. If 
no table or border type iris are available for this purpose care- 
fully remove a few buds and float them in a shallow bowl] which 
has enough surface to display the flower when it is open. Cut 
a few tips of leaves to complete this arrangement. No mat- 
ter what arrangement you wish to use always cut your flowers 
in the morning and allow to remain out of water an hour or so 
before use. This makes them easier to handle as they are less 
brittle. Always pick off curled buds, giving the fresh buds a 
better chance to open. And in selecting flowers to cut, choose 
those with a generous supply of buds. 
As a flower for personal wear the iris vies with the orchid 
for attractiveness. Its wide color range makes it a valuable 
accessory to any costume. 
