Caesar's Brother Siberian Iris Plant

Iris sibirica 'Caesar's Brother is a tall, elegant iris that boasts shades of true purple that bloom amidst slender green foliage. This one blooms in early summer and if watered properly will put on quite the show! Siberian Iris grow best in moist to wet soils although they like slightly better drainage than Louisiana irises. Deer tend to overlook irises.

Planting Instructions:

• - Can be planted anytime soil temperatures are above 45°F
• - Plant rhizomes 1-2 inches deep, ensuring the roots are well-covered with soil
• - Space plants 12-18 inches apart to allow proper air circulation
• - Choose a location with full sun to partial shade

Soil Preparation:

• - Ideal soil pH: 5.5-7.0, prefers slightly acidic to neutral, moist, well-drained soil
• - Enrich soil with organic matter, such as compost or aged manure, to improve fertility and moisture retention
• - Siberian Iris tolerates heavier clay soils better than other iris types, as long as drainage is adequate

Watering Specifics:

• - Water deeply at planting to establish roots
• - Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during the growing season
• - Once established, Siberian Iris is more drought-tolerant but still prefers regular watering in dry spells

Fertilizer Type:

• - Apply a balanced fertilizer (10-10-10) in early spring and again after blooming to encourage strong growth
• - Organic fertilizers, such as compost or bone meal, are also suitable

Pruning and Training:

• - Remove spent flower stems to tidy the plant and prevent seed formation
• - Trim foliage back to 4-6 inches in late fall to reduce the risk of pests and diseases
• - Divide clumps every 3-5 years in early fall to prevent overcrowding and maintain plant vigor

Additional Pest Management:

• - Siberian Iris is highly pest-resistant but monitor for snails and slugs in wet conditions
• - Prevent fungal diseases by ensuring good air circulation and avoiding overly wet conditions

Temperature Tolerance:

• - Hardy and tolerates a wide range of temperatures
• - In colder climates, provide mulch in winter to protect the root zone and remove in spring