Huge Root System– How Do I Handle?

Question

Hello! I am tackling a very old and unkempt flower garden this year and am stumped on what to do since I’ve come across a very large at-soil-level roots system with little green shoots. Could it be an iris variety? It spans about 3 feet in all directions and will be a challenge to dig out. I’m wondering, if it is Iris and I do dig it it out, can I divide and replant this spring? Or what do you think is the best course of action? Thank you so very much for your assistance. I uploaded a photo of a tiny portion of the plant.

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Answer 1

It does appear to be an Iris, but I wouldn't move them until mid Summer to late Autumn. Doing so now can harm them to the point of dying off, or prevent them from flowering this year.

Here is an article that will help you to divide them:

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/bulbs/iris/dividing-transplanting-iris.htm