Sunfisher Siberian Iris Plant

Iris sibirica 'Sunfisher' is one of the earliest blooming Siberian Irises. Producing light yellow standards and deeper yellow falls form a beautiful sight from early to midsummer. They are known for their elegant, and delicate flowers and being disease resistance. Sunfisher ships as a bare root. We like growing from bare roots because they establish quickly, become twice the size of a potted plant in the first season, and eliminate the need for plastic pots (a win for the environment).

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