About Long Island Gardener Expertise Growing Tulips? Dahlias? Daffodils? Gladiolus? It doesn't get easier than bulbs and tubers. Once in a while, something goes wrong: The dreaded Narcissus Bulb Fly, which resembles a honeybee. Mosaic virus, which can ignite a field of tulips in a single season. Nematodes, lurking underground. Here on the North Shore of Long Island, the garden is full of surprises. If you live in the Northeast/Atlantic Coast, I can help you pick the right bulb for every season, indoors and out, and help you fertilize, bloom and harvest for home or work. How: I have degrees in related fields, but my best understanding is all learned from trial and error. For most of my 53 years I have been gardening somewhere. No matter what the problem, I've learned the best answers are always Organic -- Earth friendly, less expensive, healthier for people and pets, easier and cleaner than toxic liquids and powders that big chemical companies sell so smoothly.
Experience Besides degrees in related fields, and a few favorite horticultural societies, I work as a docent at our local botanical gardens -- but it's the years of work in the garden that's the real test.
Question I have these gorgeous purple bearded iris that I have enjoyed 3 fantastic blooming seasons. They seem crowded now. I live in zipcode 86305-would like to divide bulbs and share with friends. What and when is the best way and time to do this? can we store bulbs before replanting or should they be put in the ground right away?
Thank you,
Prescott, AZ
Answer Easy as pie.
You may know that dividing Irises is an exercise that should be done every 4 or 5 years to maintain vigor -- in your case, less. Seems you have a very green thumb when it comes to this plant. Some Iris collectors schedule this work 6 to 8 weeks after bloom has finished, provided the weather is not too hot.
But general wisdom says optimal timing is reached as the summer wanes -- this allows for strong root development before a deep solid freeze sets in.
Don't be surprised if the new divisions take a year or longer to bloom.
North Dakota State University devotes a full webpage to the subject of Irises:
Remember, if you divide in Spring, there is a BIG chance you will interrupt flower production. Do this asap. Before it's too late! You want to get those roots started. Good luck; keep me posted.
