Expert: Kenneth Joergensen - 9/26/2006

Question
Hi,
I have alot of iris bulbs that we just dug up from my daughters house.  It's September headed into October and I live in Zone 5.  Central Illinois to be exact.  Can I plant these bulbs now or is too late in the year?  If it is how do I winter all these bulbs?  My thought is to buy a bunch of bags of top soil and just put as many in a bag as I can.  Is that a workable idea?  Thanks Vicky Hartman

Answer
Iris rhizomes (tall bearded iris) should ideally be planted by mid august. You can probably still plant them if you cover them with a brick or similar to keep it in the ground (to avoid lifting out of the ground during thaw/freeze cycles). There is some risk of rotting, however, if planted late.

You can plant them close together in a large planter and you can bring the planter in an unheated garage or shed for the winter (not too warm).

If you are planting dutch iris (small onion type bulbs) then they can be planted any time now.

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