Iris Renee is a popular choice for gardeners seeking to add elegance and vibrant color to their landscapes. This particular iris, with its striking appearance, captivating blooms, and stately presence, makes it ideal for creating focal points or complementing existing plant arrangements.
Key Characteristics of Iris Renee
Iris Renee is a bearded iris, distinguished by the soft, fuzzy “beard” on its lower petals (falls). Bearded irises display a broad spectrum of colors, often in bi-colors or blends. They typically feature six petals: three upright standards and three drooping falls.
The foliage consists of long, strappy, sword-like leaves that form attractive fans, providing structural appeal even when not in bloom. Height varies, with some types reaching up to 4 feet. They typically bloom from late spring to early summer, usually in May and June. Some varieties may rebloom later in the season, depending on environmental factors.
Planting Iris Renee Successfully
Iris Renee thrives in full sun, requiring at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight daily for robust growth and abundant blooms. While they tolerate some partial shade, especially in hot climates, insufficient light reduces flowering. Well-draining soil is crucial, as they are susceptible to rhizome rot in soggy conditions.
The ideal soil pH is slightly acidic to neutral (6.5-6.8), though they tolerate some variation. For heavy clay soil, incorporate organic matter like compost, aged manure, or gypsum to improve drainage.
When planting, create a small soil mound in the hole, placing the rhizome on top with roots spread downwards. The rhizome top should be at or just below the soil surface; planting too deeply inhibits flowering. Space rhizomes 12 to 24 inches apart for air circulation and disease prevention. After planting, water thoroughly to settle the soil.
Ongoing Care for Iris Renee
Water newly planted Iris Renee until established. Once established, they are drought-tolerant; water when the top two to three inches of soil are dry. Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot. During dry spells, especially in spring and early summer, provide about one inch of water per week, adjusted for rainfall.
Use a low-nitrogen fertilizer (e.g., 5-10-10) to support growth and blooms, as high nitrogen promotes foliage over flowers and can contribute to rot. Apply in early spring as new growth starts, and again after spring flowering, distributing it around the rhizomes, avoiding direct contact.
Deadhead spent blooms by cutting stalks to their base. This directs energy to rhizome development rather than seed production and maintains tidiness.
Divide Iris Renee every three to five years, or when flowering declines and clumps overcrowd. Mid to late summer, after flowering, is the best time, allowing divisions to establish before winter. To divide, lift the clump, cut back leaves, and separate healthy rhizomes, ensuring each section has at least one leaf fan and firm roots. Discard old or diseased parts and replant healthy divisions. Keep the garden bed free of weeds and fallen leaves for good air circulation and sunlight exposure.
Troubleshooting Common Iris Renee Problems
Iris Renee can encounter a few common issues.
Rhizome Rot
Rhizome rot, a bacterial infection, appears as soft, mushy, foul-smelling rhizomes, often due to poor drainage or deep planting. Remove affected tissue, dry healthy parts in the sun, or treat with a diluted bleach solution (5% bleach). Proper planting depth and well-draining soil are the most effective preventative measures.
Iris Borers
Iris borers tunnel into leaves and rhizomes, often causing secondary bacterial soft rot, seen as discolored, wilting foliage and mushy rhizomes. Remove and destroy old iris foliage in late fall or early spring to eliminate overwintering eggs. Inspect plants for early signs and crush larvae by hand. For severe cases, apply insecticides containing acephate, permethrin, or spinosad when new shoots are 4 to 6 inches tall.
Fungal Leaf Spot
Fungal leaf spot, common in wet conditions, appears as black or brown spots on leaves. While not fatal, it reduces plant vigor. Ensure good air circulation through proper spacing and avoid overhead watering. Remove and destroy infected leaves, especially in fall, to reduce spore spread. Fungicides may be considered for persistent infections.
Lack of Blooming
Lack of blooming often results from insufficient sunlight, overcrowding, or improper fertilization; adjust planting location, divide clumps, or use a low-nitrogen fertilizer to resolve.