How Do I Care For Iris Tubers Until I Plant Them, And When Is The Best Time Of Year To Plant Them?

Question

I dug up several iris tubers and separated them. I want to plant them in a new location. If I keep them in a cool, dry place until fall, is that good; or is it okay to plant them now (when the temps are in the 90’s)?

Answer 1

The ideal time for transplanting is when the irises are dormant in late summer, but since you have already dug them up, go ahead and plant them. Keep them lightly watered to get them established but do not overdo it. Irises can rot if overwatered.

If you wanted to hold them out till the dormant period, you can wash off all the dirt, let them dry in a shady area, then store them in newspaper in a cool area till late summer. Here is more:

https://yardandgarden.extension.iastate.edu/how-to/transplanting-and-dividing-iris