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Siberian Iris

CopperdogCopperdog Posts: 617
in Plants

I have just cut back the flowering stems of the iris as they were starting to seed.  They look like they could do with being divided.  When is the best time to do this - now or autumn?  Also is it best to leave the rest of the leaves long once they are split or can I trim them to around 6-8 inches now or do they help nourish the plant by leaving them on?  Thanks

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  • ObelixxObelixx Posts: 30,090

    Leaves are the food factory of nearly all plants except the ones that eat insects to boost nutrition so leave them on.  They photosynthesise energy from the sun and pass it down to the roots.  Can't do that if you cut them off.

    You can lift and divide your clumps in late summer or early autumn while the soil is still warm so they settle quickly.  You can, at this point, cut the leaves back to about 9" but make sure you water them well beforehand and again afterwards and until the regular autumn rains come.

    Vendée - 20kms from Atlantic coast.
    "The price good men (and women) pay for indifference to public affairs is to be ruled by evil men (and women)."
    Plato
  • CopperdogCopperdog Posts: 617

    Thanks for your helpful reply Obelixx. I will move them and trim them in September.  

  • ObelixxObelixx Posts: 30,090

    Good luck.  I've done it with mine before and they've survived and thrived.

    Vendée - 20kms from Atlantic coast.
    "The price good men (and women) pay for indifference to public affairs is to be ruled by evil men (and women)."
    Plato
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