Growing Non-GMO Yellow Bearded Iris Flower Bulbs

Yellow Bearded Irises are primarily grown outdoors as they thrive in garden beds and borders, benefiting from the natural sunlight and air circulation. These irises should be planted in late summer to early fall, ideally about six weeks before the first frost. Dig a trench 4 inches deep. Plant the rhizomes so that the tops are barely covered with soil or slightly exposed, no more than 1 inch deep. They require well-draining soil with a slightly acidic pH. Amend heavy clay soils with organic matter or sand to improve drainage, as irises do not tolerate soggy conditions.

Space the rhizomes about 12-18 inches apart to allow for proper air circulation and growth. Yellow Bearded Irises need full sun, at least 6-8 hours a day, to bloom optimally. They have a moderate water requirement, preferring moist soil during the growing season but needing less water once established. Most irises don’t need supplemental watering beyond local rainfall except in times of drought.

For the best health year to year, ensure the irises are planted in a location with good air circulation and avoid overhead watering to reduce the risk of fungal diseases. Mulching is generally not recommended for irises as it can retain too much moisture. Fertilize lightly in early spring and after blooming with a balanced, low-nitrogen fertilizer. Regularly remove any dead or diseased foliage to maintain plant health.

Growing Yellow Bearded Irises in Containers

Choose a large, well-draining container with a minimum depth of 12 inches to accommodate the rhizomes and provide room for root growth. Use a high-quality potting mix amended with perlite or sand to ensure excellent drainage. Plant the rhizomes with the tops slightly exposed, just as you would in the ground, and space them adequately if planting multiple rhizomes in a single container. Place the container in a location that receives full sun for at least 6-8 hours a day. Water the container when the top two inches of soil has dried. Fertilize sparingly with a balanced, low-nitrogen fertilizer in early spring and after blooming. Ensure good air circulation around the plants to prevent fungal diseases. Overwintering in a garage or other sheltered area is recommended, as containers lack the protection and insulation of traditional ground plantings.

Yellow Bearded Iris in the Flower Garden

Yellow Bearded Irises are versatile and striking additions to the garden, often used as focal points or in borders and edges due to their tall, eye-catching blooms. They attract pollinators like bees and butterflies with their vibrant color and sweet, delicate fragrance. While not particularly effective at repelling specific pests, they are relatively pest-resistant themselves.

Harvesting Yellow Bearded Iris

Harvest Yellow Bearded Irises when the buds are just beginning to open, usually when the first flower in the cluster starts to unfurl. This ensures that the blooms will remain open and last longer in the arrangement. The best time to cut irises is early in the morning when the temperatures are cooler, and the plants are well-hydrated.

Ensure that the vase or container is filled with fresh, lukewarm water. Change the water every two days to keep the flowers fresh. Re-cut the stems every few days, trimming about a half inch off the bottom at an angle to improve water uptake. If the stems are particularly tall and heavy, consider using floral wire or stakes to support the blooms and keep them upright in the arrangement.

About Yellow Bearded Iris Garden Bulbs

The 'Yellow' Bearded Iris is not edible. Both the flowers and the foliage are toxic if ingested by humans or animals. They contain compounds like iridin, which can cause gastrointestinal distress and other health issues. The Yellow Bearded Iris is also toxic to pets, including dogs and cats.

Also known as German irises, bearded irises attract hummingbirds but deter deer. The blooming period lasts up to three weeks in the late spring and again for a few weeks in the fall.

While irises are commonly called bulbs or roots, they are actually rhizomes. Although this doesn’t change much about how they are grown, it impacts a few things. If you are a bulb pro, just be sure to read and follow the planting directions carefully!

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Tips From Our Gardeners

"To create a sunny yellow spring display, interplant Yellow Bearded Irises, Yellow Tulips (such as Novi Sun), and classic yellow daffodils (such as Carlton or Mixed Trumpets). The cohesive color palette is adorable. You will have people stopping to admire your work all spring long!"

- Lara Wadsworth, True Leaf Market Writer

Yellow Bearded Iris Flower Bulbs Per Package:

• 1 Bulb Bag
• 3 Bulb Bag

Non-GMO Yellow Bearded Iris Bulbs are available for Fast Free Shipping on qualifying orders.