Iris ‘Social Graces’ is a beautiful and distinguished tall bearded iris cultivar, celebrated for its unique coloration and elegant form. Its striking appearance makes it a favored choice for gardeners seeking to add refined beauty to their landscapes. This iris brings a sophisticated touch, captivating with its ruffled petals and harmonious blend of hues. This guide provides essential information on how to grow and care for this exquisite plant.
Characteristics of Iris ‘Social Graces’
Iris ‘Social Graces’ is a Tall Bearded Iris, typically reaching 36 to 38 inches, sometimes up to 48 inches. It blooms mid to late spring. The flowers feature rosy lilac standards and orchid pink falls with creamy buff undertones and fine veining. A vibrant tangerine orange to carnelian red beard fades to pale melon. Its ruffled, heavily laced petals contribute to its sophisticated appearance and sweet fragrance. This award-winning cultivar received the Award of Merit from the American Iris Society.
Planting and Cultivation
Site Selection and Soil Preparation
Iris ‘Social Graces’ thrives in full sun, needing at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. In hotter climates, it can tolerate partial afternoon shade. Excellent soil drainage is crucial to prevent rhizome rot. Irises prefer average garden soils with a neutral pH, ideally between 6.5 and 6.8. For heavy clay, incorporate compost or consider raised beds to improve drainage.
When planting rhizomes, position them so the top is exposed or just barely covered, as deep planting can cause rot. Spread roots carefully in the planting hole before backfilling. The ideal planting time is after blooming, from July to October, allowing roots to establish before winter.
Watering Needs
After planting, keep the soil moist, not soggy, until roots establish (two to four weeks). Once established, ‘Iris Social Graces’ is drought tolerant, needing less frequent watering. During dry spells, water deeply every three to four weeks, allowing the top two inches of soil to dry between sessions. Direct water around the plant’s base, keeping foliage dry to prevent fungal diseases and rot. Good drainage remains key, even with increased watering in hot weather.
Fertilizing
Bearded irises, including ‘Social Graces’, benefit from a low-nitrogen fertilizer like 5-10-10 or 6-10-10. High nitrogen formulations should be avoided, as they can increase susceptibility to rhizome rot. Apply fertilizer lightly in early spring, six to eight weeks before blooming, and again after blooming concludes. Always apply around the plant, avoiding direct contact with the rhizome to prevent burning. Bone meal and superphosphate are also effective for root development and flowering.
Pruning and Deadheading
Deadhead ‘Iris Social Graces’ by clipping spent flower stalks to their base to encourage more blooms and maintain tidiness. In late autumn, trim foliage fans back to about six inches. This autumnal trimming cleans the garden and reduces overwintering sites for pests and fungal spores. Dispose of removed foliage and plant debris properly, avoiding composting if diseases were present.
Winter Protection
Bearded irises generally do not prefer mulch directly over their rhizomes, as it can trap moisture and cause rot. In colder regions (USDA Zones 3-4), a thin layer of mulch or leaves can protect rhizomes during the coldest months. Remove this protective layer promptly in early spring before new growth. Excellent soil drainage is crucial for winter care, preventing water from pooling and causing rhizome rot or freezing.
Propagating and Dividing
Dividing ‘Iris Social Graces’ rhizomes rejuvenates plants, prevents overcrowding, and increases stock. This practice also helps maintain vigorous blooming and manages potential issues like iris borers and bacterial soft rot. It is recommended to divide bearded irises every three to five years, or when flowering declines due to overcrowding. The ideal time for division is late summer to early fall, six to eight weeks after blooming, typically from July through September. This timing allows newly separated rhizomes sufficient time to develop a robust root system before freezing temperatures.
To divide, carefully lift the entire clump with a shovel or digging fork, then gently shake off excess soil to expose the rhizomes. Separate the rhizomes, ensuring each section retains at least one fan of leaves and a portion of firm, healthy roots. Discard any old, soft, or damaged parts. Trim the foliage of the divisions back to about six inches to reduce moisture loss. Replant with the rhizome either partially exposed or just barely covered by soil, spacing them 12 to 18 inches apart for good air circulation. Water thoroughly after replanting to help settle the soil.
Addressing Common Challenges
Rhizome Rot
Rhizome rot, characterized by mushy, foul-smelling rhizomes and yellowing or collapsing leaves, is primarily caused by poor drainage, overwatering, or rhizomes planted too deeply. To address this, improve drainage, remove any infected tissue, allow the rhizome to dry, and treat the affected area with a 10% bleach solution (one part bleach to nine parts water).
Iris Borers
Iris borers are a concern, as their larvae tunnel through foliage and into the rhizomes, creating an entry point for bacterial rot. Signs of borer activity include brown streaks or collapsed foliage. To prevent infestations, remove and destroy old iris foliage in the fall or early spring, as this eliminates overwintering eggs. In early stages, larvae can be hand-crushed, or insecticides can be applied when new shoots are four to six inches tall. Beneficial nematodes also offer a biological control option.
Foliage Diseases
Foliage diseases, such as leaf spot, appear as yellow or brown spots on the leaves, typically due to fungal or bacterial infections. Maintaining good garden hygiene by promptly removing affected leaves helps prevent the spread of disease. Ensuring adequate air circulation around the plants is also beneficial. For severe cases, specific fungicides can be applied to protect new growth.