Cubs Win It Tall Bearded Iris Rhizome

Shipping bare root means the rhizome arrives without soil or a pot, which is actually the preferred method for irises. It allows the plant to go dormant during transit and establish roots directly into your garden soil immediately upon planting.

Tall Bearded Irises are unique because they prefer to be planted shallowly. The top of the rhizome should be just barely visible at the soil surface, or covered with only a very thin layer of soil, to prevent rot and encourage blooming.

While it is possible to see blooms in the first spring, it is more common for the rhizome to spend its first season establishing a strong root system. You can typically expect a more robust and reliable display of flowers by the second year.

Yes, excellent drainage is the most critical factor for Bearded Irises. If you have heavy clay soil, amend it with organic matter or plant in a raised bed to ensure the rhizome does not sit in standing water, which can cause it to rot.

These irises thrive in full sun, meaning at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight daily. While they can tolerate partial shade, too little light will result in fewer blooms and weaker stems.