PRESALE
Fall 2023 Shipping Schedule: 3/1/2024
The Dutch Iris' unmatched presence is an elegant addition to any garden. Bright and airy, the Dutch Iris resembles a birds in flight. Exquisite orchid-like flowers in solids and mixes of blue, purple, yellow and white rest atop sturdy stems. Striking sword-like leaves.
About this Variety
Dutch Iris Telstar is a famous blue variety with some yellow on its falls. A quintessential Dutch Iris. The blooms sit atop clumps of upright, narrow linear leaves. Long lasting and excellent as a cut flower.
Highlights
- Returns for years to come
- Great florist quality cut flower
- Deer and critter resistant
- One of the most popular flower bulbs
- Grows well in containers, borders and mass plantings
Exposure:
Full Sun
Blooms:
Late Spring
Height:
Grows 18-24" tall
Spacing/Depth:
Plant 4-6" apart, 4-6" deep
USDA Zones:
Grow as Perennial in zones 5-9. Grow as Annual elsewhere.
Growing Instructions
Plant in the spring after all danger of frost has passed. Dutch Iris performs well in full sun locations. The ideal soil is rich and porous and drains well, yet still holds enough water for the roots. If your soil is heavy clay and drains slowly, or very sandy and does not hold water, add organic soil amendments like peat moss or ground bark. Spread a 3-4 inch layer of soil amendment if needed and incorporate into the soil to a depth of 10 inches. Plant bulbs 2-3" deep and 12-18" apart. Cover with soil. When planting a large number of bulbs in one bed, excavate the entire area to the recommended depth, work fertilizer into the bottom of the trench, set out bulbs and then cover all at once. Water thoroughly at planting. While actively growing, water frequently and thoroughly so that water will reach roots. Mulch to keep the soil cool and to prevent the soil from drying out. Fertilize twice a year. Do not cut foliage back until the leaves have yellowed and died. Lift and store over winter if planted in colder climates. Mulch in milder climates to protect from frost.
Care Tip
Dutch iris bulbs can be planted in spring or fall. Select a planting site that has reasonably fertile soil and plenty of moisture that will not allow the bulbs to dry out in summer. Good drainage and a sheltered location will help them survive the winter to return for years to come. Best planted in large groups of 15 bulbs per square foot. It is recommended that gardeners in zone 5 should add a 2" layer of mulch in fall.