Q.Transplanting irises
My niece is moving to a new home in a few days. She wants to move several irises to her new home, but may not be able to transplant them the same day as she digs them up at her current home due to moving activities. Should she keep them in newspaper and water the rhizomes every day? Or should she put them in pots with dirt for a few days until she is able to transplant? These are irises around 30 years old, with huge yellow blooms; she really wants to save them. Any advice, especially with this heat?
Certified GKH Gardening Expert
Actually summer is a good time to lift the Iris plants!
Remove any dried part of the rhizomes and cut the leaves to about a 6 inch fan. Place them in a box or plastic bin and cover with a few inches of peat moss. Keep them out of direct sun until you are ready to plant. Try to plant by Sept and water them in so them can become established before cold and winter arrives. Keep them from heat and water while they are stored. No need to water!
Here are some links with more information:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/bulbs/iris/dividing-transplanting-iris.htm
