Expert: Laura Walker - 9/27/2004

Question
I am moving from Albany, NY to Charlotte, NC in December. Is there any way I can transplant some of my grandmother's iris bulbs to take with me? Thanks.
Priscilla

Answer
Priscilla,
Sure thing. It doesn't matter what type you have,either the bulb type or the rhizomes. Make sure that the foliage has turned at least a bit yellow or brown before cutting it off.The bulbs need that green nitrogen from the foliage to produce future blooms just like any other type of bulb.If they are not yellowish yet just dig them up green and cut off foliage straight across so that they are about 5 inches long.Shake off the excess soil around the bulbs or rhizomes and if you have the rhizome type which are long and straight and kind of bumpy looking(sorry for the wierd description),you might want to cut these into 2 to 3 divisions.Also trim the roots.They will do better after transplanting.The rhizome type should be planted VERY shallow,where you can actually see the rhizome above or barely peeking out from the soil.I use metal garden staples for these when I plant,and put the staple right in the middle of the rhizome firmly so that the plant doesnt move back and forth.If that happens you will have uprooted plants or no roots at all or crooked growing plants. The bulb types are much easier to plant.They go a bit deeper where you dont see a bulb at all.(about 5 inches below soil).
After trimming foliage and roots and shaking off extra soil,place them in a dry paper bag and label the bags.Store them in a dry place until you are ready to plant.

They should be planted at the same time all the other spring blooming bulbs like Tulips and Daffodils in late fall or before the ground freezes.Since you will be in Charlotte,NC,you have plenty of time before you have to plant. December will be just fine for planting them.
Good luck in your new home and I'm sure your Grandmother's heirloom Irises will do just fine!

PS: Adding some bulb booster into the soil before planting will give them a good head start.Try Holland Bulb Booster in a bag.You can find it at all garden centers.