How to Replant Irises?

Enjoy Season After Season of Color by Replanting Irises

Irises are one of the most eye-catching spring-flowering bulbs, with blooms resembling tropical butterflies in gorgeous shades of blue, purple, white, yellow, bronze and red.

When can I move my irises?

If irises are cared for properly they will reward you with season after season of color in your spring garden. One of the questions we’re most often asked is “When can I move my irises?”. There are several different types of iris and the best time for replanting iris bulbs depends on the variety.

Replanting Irises in Spring: Bearded Iris

Bearded irises grow from a root-like bulb called a rhizome. If they become overcrowded they will stop blooming. After the plant has bloomed in late spring, cut the leaves back to a few inches and dig up the root ball. Divide up the rhizomes, making sure each new piece has a leaf attached, and replant them with the top of the rhizome just showing above the soil.

Replanting Irises in Fall: Dwarf Iris

Dwarf irises grow from small bulbs; they will naturalize and spread into large groups. To multiply your stock of dwarf irises, allow the foliage to die back before digging up the bulbs in early fall and separating them out, discarding any diseased or damaged ones. Replant the bulbs in a sunny, well-drained spot.

How To Replant Dutch Irises?

Dutch irises are often thought of as annual bulbs but they will also naturalize if planted in the right location - a sunny spot with soil that never gets too waterlogged. To increase your stock and spread the beauty around, wait until the foliage has died right back in early fall, then dig up the bulbs, separate them and replant, first enriching the soil with a little compost.

If you're dreaming of a garden filled with irises next spring, head over to our iris collection, where you’ll discover traditional favorites as well as some exclusive new varieties.