Code Black Bearded Iris Plant

Iris germanica 'Code Black Border' plants produce velvet-looking flowers that fade from a dark, dark purple to light purple as you work your way up. The beard on this Iris has brown hairs that have "burnt" tips. Compared to a tall variety, a border plant will be shorter in height, although not as short as a dwarf variety. Iris plants grow best in sunny locations with well-drained soils. They make spectacular additions to rock gardens and early summer beds and borders. Rhizomes should be divided every 3-4 years. Deer tend to overlook irises.

Planting Instructions:

• - Can be planted anytime soil temperatures are above 45°F
• - Plant rhizomes just below the surface of the soil, ensuring the tops are exposed or barely covered
• - Space plants 12-24 inches apart to allow proper air circulation
• - Choose a sunny location with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day

Soil Preparation:

• - Ideal soil pH: 6.0-7.5, prefers slightly acidic to neutral, well-drained soil
• - Enrich soil with compost or aged manure to improve fertility and drainage
• - Avoid heavy clay soil unless amended with organic matter to improve drainage

Watering Specifics:

• - Water deeply at planting to establish roots
• - Bearded Iris prefers dry conditions once established; water sparingly to prevent rot
• - Avoid watering directly on the rhizomes to prevent fungal issues

Fertilizer Type:

• - Apply a low-nitrogen fertilizer (e.g., 5-10-10) in early spring and after blooming
• - Avoid over-fertilizing, as excessive nitrogen can encourage foliage growth at the expense of flowers

Pruning and Training:

• - Remove spent blooms (deadhead) to encourage further blooming and prevent seed formation
• - Trim foliage to 6-8 inches in late fall to reduce the risk of pests and diseases
• - Divide rhizomes every 3-4 years in late summer to prevent overcrowding and maintain vigorous growth

Additional Pest Management:

• - Monitor for iris borers; remove and destroy any affected rhizomes immediately
• - Prevent fungal diseases by ensuring proper air circulation and avoiding overhead watering
• - Watch for slugs and snails, especially in wet conditions

Temperature Tolerance:

• - Hardy and tolerates a wide range of temperatures
• - In colder climates, apply mulch in winter to protect the rhizomes, but ensure it is removed in spring to prevent rot