The most beautiful varieties of bearded irises. The best varieties of irises

Spring brings not only warmth, but also beauty - a riot of colors and aromas. Multi-colored front gardens are always striking to the eye.

Very often it is irises that make the garden colorful and fragrant. They are not picky and beautiful, which is why they are loved by both beginners and experienced gardeners. With their help you can create incredible compositions in the garden and flowerpots.

Rainbow flower - garden decoration

Iris (lat. Íris) is perennial from the Iris or Kasatikov family. The flower acquired its name back in Ancient Greece, thanks to the rainbow goddess Iris. Translated from Greek, “Iris” means “rainbow”.

It was for the variety of shades and colors that the plant was so named. People often call irises “killer whales” or “cockerels”. It is also noted that irises are similar to orchids with their graceful forms and luxurious shades.

A distinctive feature of the “killer whales” is large flower unusual shape. The architecture of the inflorescence is so elegant and original that once you see it, it is difficult to confuse it with any other plant. The flower consists of six petals - three internal and three external.

The petals located inside are raised up. It resembles a "crown" or "cock's comb". The outer ones are lowered down or located horizontally. The diameter of the flower can reach 15-25 cm. The color palette is so diverse that you can find both solid colors and the most varied and unexpected color combinations.

They can be patterned or with a contrasting border. There are even iridescent irises. Their color is difficult to fix, since the coloring pigment is located directly in the juice and, accordingly, moves along with its current, creating various colorful tints. One peduncle can have from one to ten buds.

The leaves are sword-shaped and can be either straight or curved. At the base, the leaves are most often fan-shaped. In spring they acquire a light green color, and in summer period the color becomes more saturated.

The rhizomes are creeping, horizontally located in loose layers of soil (sometimes protruding above the surface).

In nature, you can also find wild irises in meadows, rocks, and steppes. IN greenhouse conditions About 800 different varieties have been bred.

The following main varietal groups can be distinguished:

• bearded;
• dwarf;
• Siberian;
• Japanese;
• bulbous;
• swamp.

Names, photos and descriptions of varieties

Bearded

Based on the shape of the flowers, irises are divided into bearded and non-bearded. Bearded killer whales have small fibers on the surface of their petals. The hairy path is located at the base of the outer petals. It can match the petals or, conversely, stand out in contrast.

Bearded killer whales have an individual classification:

• medium height;
• standard medium height;
• medium height binders;
• tall;
• borders;
• small-flowered, medium-sized;
• miniature dwarf;
• standard dwarf;
• arylbreds;
• canteens;
• Arilbreds and Arils;
• aryl-like arylbreds and aryls;
• non-aryl-like arylbreds.

This is a scientific taxonomy, and ordinary gardeners group bearded irises as follows:

• dwarf - up to 0.4 m;
• small - up to 0.7 m;
• high - above 0.7 m.

Tall perennials can reach a height of up to 120 cm. They are distinguished by large petals with a dense openwork edge.

The famous amateur gardener Nikolai Lipatov is growing bearded irises. There are 700 varieties in his arsenal. He gives his recommendations for their care in in social networks, where he actively posts photographs of beauty created with his own hands.

In addition to excellent external qualities and a wide color palette, bearded representatives have the following advantages:

1. Possibility to pick up suitable variety for a specific area or composition. The variety is so great that irises can be used in flower beds, borders, alpine roller coaster, for solitaires, bouquets.
2. They grow quickly and produce flowering buds.
3. Unpretentious in care.
4. They bloom lushly and for a long time. Flowering begins from late spring to mid-July (depending on the variety).
5. There are hybrids that do not need shelter for the winter - they are frost-resistant.
6. Strong, rarely affected by pests and diseases.

Tall bearded "cockerels" have a separate name - Germanic. This is the most common type.

German killer whales:

Name	Characteristic	Inflorescence
Baltic Sea	It has a strong sweetish aroma. Blooms late. The peduncle produces up to 10 buds and a height of up to a meter	The inner leaves of the flower are directed upward. They are a rich sea blue color. Fouls ( outer leaves) lilac color with blue-white beards. The border is dense and openwork
Bewilderbest	Winter-hardy, light-loving. Medium sized plant	Beige or burgundy red with white or maize stripes
Acoma	Starts to bloom early	Heavenly or creamy shade. The edges have a lavender border.
Attention Please - Attention please	Reaches a height of 0.9 m. Blooms in June	The inner petals (standards) are painted amethyst. The foils are amethyst with multiple inclusions of milky color with a yellow transition to the base. Orange beard present
Sultan's Palace - Sultan Palace	Height is about one meter. Possesses pleasant aroma, blooms for a long time. Frost-resistant	Ø 15 cm. Single-color hybrid. Standards and fouls are dense with slightly openwork edges. The color is red-brown with burgundy streaks and a straw beard.
Beverly Sills - Beverly Sills	It reaches a height of 0.9 m. The leaves are long, narrow, and richly green in color. Flowering begins in early July	Medium size, coral pink color with a red beard
Supreme Sultan - Supreme Sultan	Reaches 0.8 m. Blooms from May	The top is mustard, the foils are brown-burgundy, velvety. The beard is yellow and the edge is corrugated
Purple Striped White – Pink German	The iris is similar to an orchid. Starts to bloom early	Velvety soft pink color with white strokes
Burgmeister - Burgomaster	Peduncle height up to 0.8 m.	Medium size. The main color is dark purple with pink and yellow soft transitions and an orange-violet openwork border

Photos of German varieties of irises:

Attention Please

Purple Striped White

Sultans Palace

Supreme sultan

Other varieties of bearded cockerels:

Variety	Characteristic	Inflorescence
Crinoline	Reaches up to 0.12 m in height. Blooms from late May	The standards are burgundy-wine, the fouls are white with a burgundy border and a gold beard.
Camaroun - Cameroon	Height 0.8 m. Begins to bloom in June. Exudes a pleasant lasting aroma	The top is soft lilac, the bottom is dark violet with a thick beard.
Babbling Brook - Babbling Brook or Babbling Brook	The flowers seem to hang over each other, forming a stream. Flowering begins in June	Changes color depending on the lighting from sky blue to lilac-pearl. Large flowers with an openwork edging, dark veins and a straw-pearl beard
Pumila Brassie	Dwarf iris up to 0.3 m. Flowering period - May-June. Retains decorative effect until cold weather	Diameter 10 cm lemon color
Blushes - Blushes	Plant height 0.7 m. Flowering period from late spring or early summer	Large, white top with blue veins, dark blue bottom
BATIK - Batik	It can reach approximately 0.7-0.8 m. It has a pleasant spicy aroma. It is often called a garden orchid	Large, purple in color with a lot of white veins
Summer Night - Summer Night	A beautiful, tall “cockerel” that reaches 0.8-0.9 m in height. Flowering - early or mid-July. Has a distinct scent	Medium, rich purple with yellow center
Starfall	High – 0.75-0.8 m	Medium in size, pale lemon in color with a bright orange beard
Arkady Raikin - Arkady Raikin	Tall plant. Gives off a strong aroma	Medium size, red-pink color with a pronounced orange beard
Abkhazia - Abkhazia	Late flowering	Large, in purple-brown colors. The edge of the petals is wavy, there are many folds (reminiscent of fringe)
Guards - Guards	One of the tallest and most fragrant plants	Large (15 cm), yellow
Diamond Elbrus - Elbrus Diamond	One of the most popular varieties. Tall "killer whale" - up to 0.9 m	Large, white with orange-yellow base and veins
Caribbean Dream - Caribbean Dream	A medium-sized cockerel that exudes a vanilla amber	Large, bright blue color
Crowned Heads	This is a miracle of selection. Medium height cockerel. Carries a wonderful aroma	The middle is a rich blue-violet tone, the fouls are silver-blue
Afternoon in Rio	High, 0.9 m	In variegated purple tones with lace edging and a gold beard
Nine Lives - Nine Lives	Dwarf bearded vulture, 35 cm	The center of the bud is creamy-milky, the edges are dark burgundy-red with a wide soft pink edging and gold in the middle

Photos of iris varieties with names:

Afternoon in Rio

Babbling Brook

Caribbean Dream

Diamond Elbrus

Pumila Brassie

Bearded irises for beginner gardeners. Video:

Siberian

Iris sibirica is very similar to bearded representatives, but has its own characteristics. This is perennial herbaceous plant. Its height is 65-110 cm. The leaves are linear, green, elongated upward. The flower reaches 7-15 cm in diameter, the outer petals are elongated, which determines the specific structural arrangement.

Beauty is the undeniable value of this iris.

It also has the following positive characteristics:

1. It grows quickly and produces many flower stalks.
2. Foliage always looks presentable. Even after flowering, irises continue to decorate the garden.
3. A very persistent and unpretentious cockerel, resistant to cold temperatures.
4. Grows well in both sun and shade.

Overview of varieties:

Name	Flower	Size(cm)
Double Standard - Double Standard	Purple in color with a yellow base, on which purple stripes are visible. Terry edges	< 100
Cambridge - Cambridge	Pale blue color with yellow spot in the middle (diameter up to 7 cm)	<70
Moon Silk - Moon Silk	Up to 10 cm in diameter. The standard is ivory in color, and the fouls are light yellow with an orange base. The edges have an openwork edging. Produces buds in June	< 95
Sparkling Rose - Sparkling Rose	They grow up to 12 cm. They have a purple-pink color with a yellow center. The period of appearance of buds is June	< 80
Super Ego - Super Ego	The flowers are large - 14 cm. The bottom is blue, the top is pale sky. Blooms in June	< 80
White Swirl	Diameter 14 cm, snow-white, lemon inclusions at the base. Blooms in June	< 60
Butter and Sugar – Bate and Shuge	The standard is white, the fouls are deep yellow (up to 11 cm). Flowering begins in July	About 80

Catalog of some varieties of Siberian irises:

Butter and Sugar

Double Standard

Sparkling Rose

Reproduction of Siberian irises on video:

Japanese

There are about 1000 varieties of Japanese irises. They are common not only in China and Japan, but also in the USA and Russia.

Japanese "killer whales" have quite large flowers - 15-25 cm in diameter, and leaves reach 25-60 cm. Externally, the inflorescences resemble a saucer in shape - all the petals are in a horizontal position, only the pistils are raised up (styles) and have a comb at the end .

“Japanese” can be one-color or two-color, with colorful splashes or veins, with a contrasting frame. These plants need light, warmth and moisture.

Japanese iris has many varieties in its arsenal, the most popular of which are:

Name	Plant height (cm)	Flower diameter (cm)	Inflorescence color	Styles	Peculiarities
IRIS ENSATA KOGESHO - Kogesho	60-80	19	Purple-white with yellow base and purple veins	White	Loves dry, loose soil, sunlight and warmth. Resistant to bacteriosis
Wine Ruffles - Wine Raffles	80-120	21	Lilac-violet, amaranth-purple, with a bluish-yellow center, double	Lilac	Needs wintering with shelter
Freckled Geisha	85	17	White with lilac splashes and border	White	Hybrid with 9 petals, has a corrugated edge. Winters without shelter
GOOD OMEN - Good Omen	80-120	22	Amethyst with yellow vein	Purple	Blooms long and luxuriantly. Frost-resistant
Queens Tiara	90	20	The underparts are white with a yellow spot at the base, the upper parts are purple	White	Needs shelter in winter and is not susceptible to bacteriosis. photophilous
Nessa No Mai - Nessa no Mai	70-80	23	White with yellow center and purple openwork border	White	Low winter hardiness, not susceptible to pests
Variegata - Variegata	75	15	Burgundy with yellow veins and the same top	Yellow	Very light-loving, has cream stripes on the leaves. Frost-resistant
Tsubasa - Tsubasa	90	20	White base with yellow stripe and red-violet wavy edge	White	Loves warmth and light, needs shelter for the winter

Photos of Japanese irises:

Bulbous xyphiums

Xyphiums are elegant members of the Iris family. The main difference from irises is that they have bulbs instead of rhizomes. The leaves are thinner and grooved. Peduncles are thin and tall. The inflorescences are represented by 6 petals, sometimes there are marigolds on the lower ones. There are 7 wild species in the northwestern Mediterranean. During breeding work, it was possible to create various varieties and hybrids. These are very demanding and capricious plants.

Classified into groups.

English is the most frost-resistant group. Retains viability at temperatures down to -25°C. The most unpretentious look.

The most popular varieties:

• La Newite;
• Prince Albert;
• Giant;
• Mont Blanc.

Plants grow up to 0.5 m in height. The average diameter of the flowers is 7 cm. The flowers have a diamond-shaped outline and marigolds. The standards tend to rise, there is no tube. Inflorescences are presented in white, blue, blue, and violet tones. The leaves are dense and narrow. The flowering period occurs at the end of June.

Dutch group. Representatives of this group do not belong to frost-resistant plants. They need to be covered for the winter.

The best varieties:

• Wedgwood;
• Emperor;
• Bronze Queen;
• King Mov;
• Bytwan Fleet.

The bulbous Dutchman has wide leaves and flowers with a diameter of 12 cm. The structure of the flower is similar to the English group. Xyphiums can be gold, yellow, orange, blue, or purple. A combination of colors is also possible.

The Spanish group is the most sensitive to temperature changes. These are plants with a short growing season. The iris blooms for a couple of weeks.

A miniature representative of bulbous irises is Danfordiae. Its height reaches 10 cm. Small yellow inflorescences have greenish dots. This representative does not have top leaves (standards). Reproduces exclusively by vegetative means.

Swamp irises

The marsh "killer whale" successfully grows and blooms in the regions of Russia. The leaves are sword-shaped. Sometimes they grow up to 2 meters. This species grows well in partial shade, which makes it easier to choose a site for planting it.

The most popular varieties:

It is better to use irises in group plantings, so they look as advantageous as possible. With their help, you can create intricate compositions or decorate your garden and flower beds in a minimalist style.

Bearded irises can easily be put first on the list of garden favorites; their main distinguishing feature is a fluffy stripe located along the central vein of the outer and sometimes inner petals of the flower.

Intensive breeding work with bearded irises began at the beginning of the 19th century in Europe. Garden varieties of bearded irises were obtained by crossing eight species of iris: German iris (Iris germanica), variegated (Iris variegata), pale (Iris pallida), leafless, Cypriot, Mesopotamian, Kashmir, Trojan. Therefore, to this day, in commercial labeling, bearded irises are often called German irises. This outdated name has now been replaced by another, which very accurately reflects the essence - hybrid iris (Iris hybrida hort.), because all varieties of bearded irises are hybrids obtained as a result of repeated crossings (artificial pollinations). This is truly a “handmade” flower, a masterpiece created by man in alliance with nature.

In addition to the border, patterns of strokes of different colors, complex combinations of different colors that transform into each other, many modern varieties have a specific texture of the petals. It creates special visual effects, giving pastel varieties the matteness of alabaster or waxy translucency, and dark ones a velvety depth. Irises, like daylilies, have varieties with a “diamond coating” that sparkle in the sun or shimmer in the summer twilight.
In bearded irises, a thick perennial rhizome is located horizontally flush with the soil, long cord-like roots extend from it, forming a fibrous root system. The xiphoid leaves, covered with a bluish waxy coating, are folded like a fan. The iris flower has three perianth lobes: those facing upward are called “standards”, those deviating downwards are called “fouls”.

Older varieties of irises have narrow foils, similar to the protruding tongue of a dog. Modern varieties have wide rounded foils, domed or crown-shaped standards and various forms of corrugation. A distinctive feature of irises of recent decades are wide fluffy beards, which in a group of varieties turn into colored “horns”, “spoons” or “frills”.

The color of the flowers has also reached amazing diversity. But, despite the focused efforts of hybridizers, the iris has not yet been developed as a uniquely red color, numerous attempts to obtain it have led to the creation of a large number of red-burgundy varieties. Therefore, it is not an exaggeration to say that the modern range of irises covers the entire range of colors, including black.

According to the American Iris Society - the leader and legislator of modern breeding of bearded irises - today there are over 80 thousand varieties. In the AIS classification, irises are divided into six garden groups, differing in peduncle height, flower size and flowering time. To choose the right plants for your garden, you should get to know them better.

(table)

A number of terms have been adopted to describe the coloring features of bearded irises:
plicata - on a light background, a pattern of dark dots and strokes merging along the edge into a border;
luminata - patterned highlights on a dark background, lighter standards;
blend (iridescent) - two or more colors smoothly transition into each other;
amena - white or lighter standards in a two-color flower, in modern varieties there is a “reverse amena”, when the standards are darker colored than the lower fouls;
splash (“torn color”) - against the background of the main color there are numerous strokes and strokes of other colors.

USE IN THE GARDEN

Originators - this is the name given to the creators of new varieties - in the process of working with the plant, they endow the flower with new properties. This is a special type of creativity aimed at finding a new visual image: in color, proportions and shape. Therefore, figuratively speaking, all garden irises are works of art.

The most hardy and winter-hardy

The lower the iris, the faster it blooms, and therefore you will be the first to greet dwarf irises. Yes, they are not so small, 40 cm is an excellent height for flowering in the first ten days of May. “Dwarfs” (SDB) are taller than groundcovers, small bulbs and emerging perennials, but on a par or slightly lower with daffodils and tulips. They overwinter without shelter, are undemanding to the soil, do not need watering, the warmth of our summer is enough for them to multiply and bloom profusely. That is why, despite their low growth, dwarf irises have become one of the most fashionable and in demand for growing in temperate climates.

Low flowers in single and group plantings look organic among stones and ground cover plants on an alpine hill, adding color accents to the composition. The fantastic variety of colors of “dwarfs” allows you to create amazing combinations both based on contrast and within the same color scheme. Plant dwarf irises along with tulips, daffodils, hyacinths, miniature primroses, and the eternal problem - bare soil under the bulbous ones - will be forgotten forever.

Abundant and early flowering, unpretentiousness and fertility put dwarf irises out of competition when creating extended borders and large flowering areas, on lawns, in tree trunks, on sunny slopes. In the May garden, barely covered with the first greenery, a bright carpet of blooming irises will attract everyone's attention, and after flowering it will become almost invisible. The pointed leaves of the iris with a bluish coating remain decorative throughout the season, but they are small in height, so they do not block other plants, content with the role of a tactful background. Dwarf irises can be divided and replanted even during flowering; after a warm summer, they often bloom again in August - September. “Dwarfs” can be grown in container culture, on balconies and loggias; they feel good in pots and are easy to force out in the cold season.

The most friendly

At the beginning of June, the flowering relay passes to medium-sized bearded irises up to 70 cm high, this group consists of Intermedia (IB), Table (MTB) and Border (BB) irises. The flowers of this group of irises can be very large and numerous, but due to the smaller height of the peduncles they are resistant to the wind. Table irises, as their name suggests, will decorate not only the garden, but also the house. Their graceful flowers on strong peduncles are ideal for making bouquets. All the buds of a cut flower open, which allows it to remain decorative in a vase for a long time. Moreover, such a bouquet can bloom for you by the New Year or on March 8 - medium-sized irises lend themselves well to forcing and are able to fully bloom indoors in the winter.
The flowering of the newest varieties of foreign selection simply amazes the imagination with the size, shape of the flowers, and the amazing play of shades. However, being plants of southern origin, they may require additional attention during the period of adaptation to new climatic conditions. This especially applies to peach-pink colors; they are the most vulnerable to frost.
At the beginning of June, in the off-season, when the primroses have already faded and the annuals and perennials are still preparing to bloom, it is the medium-sized irises that will add the missing colors to the garden palette. Medium-sized irises overwinter stably, grow quickly, forming lush bushes with many flower stalks.

This is the most versatile class of irises, beautiful both in single plantings and in all forms of group planting.

In addition to creating borders and large areas, medium-sized irises are best suited for planting on slopes; their powerful root system will hold the soil layer and prevent terrain deformation.

"High genre"

Tall Irises (TV)- born soloists. By growing such a meter-long beauty near your house or path, you will give yourself the incomparable pleasure of watching the birth of a flower, the change in its outlines and shades as it grows older. An iris bush can produce 10-15 peduncles, each of which has up to 25 flowers open at the same time. The collection of irises is of particular interest to connoisseurs of fragrances, because the variety of smells in different varieties of bearded irises is no less than the range of colors and shapes.

Jasmine, peonies, foxgloves, daylilies, heucheras and onions blooming at the same time will serve as an excellent background for irises. The outstanding decorative qualities of many modern varieties with massive peduncles and large corrugated flowers will be emphasized by the restrained “accompaniment” of decorative leafy crops (sage, sage, hosta, bergenia, wormwood, cuff, sedum and young).
In all classes of bearded irises, there are varieties that are capable of repeated flowering; this property is called remontant and is designated by the abbreviation (RE). But in the middle zone this is more of a disadvantage than an advantage. In our climate, re-blooming in autumn is very irregular and occurs in dwarf and medium-sized irises after a very warm summer. All remontant varieties continue to grow actively in the fall, not having time to enter a state of dormancy before the onset of frost, which is necessary for successful wintering. Therefore, re-blooming irises are the least cold-resistant and difficult group of varieties to grow.
In group planting, varieties of pastel colors or simply similar in color look harmonious. Be especially attentive to two-color irises; they rarely “suit” planting in a single mass. In the area of ​​contrasting combinations, a lot of possibilities are opened by the non-linear arrangement of clumps of a sufficiently large area; it is advisable to arrange groups from an odd number of varieties.

The June bloom of the tall bearded irises is truly magnificent! Their advantages are obvious, and the variety of varieties will satisfy the most demanding connoisseur. The choice depends entirely on your tastes and the location of the garden. I will only note that tall (TV) is the most demanding class of irises in terms of growing conditions.

The most unpretentious and resistant to cold, pests and diseases are the old classic irises, bred in the 19th and early 20th centuries. However, for all their endurance, they are significantly inferior to modern varieties in terms of decorative qualities. Beginning flower growers should pay attention first of all to varieties of domestic selection, one of the main priorities of which was the breeding of varieties that are most resistant to cold and disease.

SELECTION OF PLANTING MATERIAL

The planting unit of a bearded iris, the so-called “deleka”, is a piece of thick rhizome with roots extending from it and a fan of leaves, which are shortened to a length of 10-15 cm. High-quality delenki have clearly visible buds on the sides. Irises can be planted from May to September, so planting material goes on mass sale in early spring. Wherever you buy irises, be sure to take a cutting in your hands and carefully examine the plant. Yellowing of a couple of outer leaves is quite acceptable, but if softened areas of the rhizome, mold or stains are found, you should refrain from purchasing.

Bearded irises are very sensitive to excess moisture. Humidity, especially in combination with heat, is destructive for planting material. Mature rhizomes are not afraid of drying and can be stored in a dry and cool place for up to 2 months. This feature has contributed to the wide dissemination of the culture of bearded irises, because delenki tolerate mailing well. Therefore, the most rational way to purchase planting material that is healthy and appropriate for the variety is to turn to collectors.

The largest association of iris lovers, as well as breeders and competent producers of planting material is the Russian Iris Society. Within the framework of this non-profit association of flower growers, exhibitions, training seminars, official registration of new varieties are held, and the purchase of planting material of Russian and foreign selection is coordinated. Anyone can become a member of the ROI; the association maintains an official website (http//rusiris.narod.ru) and annually publishes the newsletter “Irises of Russia” with an overview of the most significant events in the modern world of irises, articles on agricultural technology and breeding of these plants. Society address: 129110 Moscow, st. Gilyarovsky, 36-23.

What is important to take into account when purchasing planting material from private collections?

The level of collection maintenance is largely evidenced by the catalog - a list of proposed varieties with a description that informs you as much as possible about the properties of the variety. The variety class according to the height of the peduncle must be indicated. The name is followed by the surname of the breeder, the year of registration of the variety, a description of the color, features and awards received.
The times when one could mostly dream about new breeding products are over. Now we excitedly leaf through catalogs, jumping from site to site in search of interesting varieties. But the more choices, the more difficult it is to make. One “golden” rule will allow you to lay and maintain a strong foundation for your iris garden - first of all, choose award-winning varieties.
Collectors who value their reputation and circle of customers offer a system of discounts, bonuses, guarantees and order approvals, following the world practice of offering planting material. Including its unwritten law: the older the variety, the lower its price. The high cost of the newest varieties is explained not only by their outstanding decorative qualities, but also by the number of plants themselves. In irises, a new variety propagates only vegetatively, that is, by dividing one “original” plant obtained from a seed, therefore, by the time a variety is officially registered, the number of plants that bear it is small, and it is customary to charge the highest price for the right to own them. For reference: the price of the current year's varieties from the luminaries of American selection ranges from 30 to 50 dollars.

GROWING IRISES

Choosing a landing site

In order for flowering to be regular and abundant, the area for planting bearded irises must be as warm and light as possible, and when planting tall irises, it must be protected from the wind. Bearded irises do not tolerate excessive moisture, so flooded lowlands are not for them; in areas with high groundwater levels, planting is possible on raised ridges.

Soil preparation

The best soil for irises is light loam. Clay soils can be improved by adding sand and peat, acidic soils can be neutralized with dolomite flour, and sandy soils can be improved with clay and well-rotted compost. The soil under irises should have good water and air permeability. In the fight for porosity, all means are good - coarse sand, crushed brick, fine limestone, and charcoal will do.

Excess nitrogen reduces winter hardiness and increases the risk of bacterial infections, so organic additives (completely rotted compost or manure humus) can be added in small quantities to the lower layer of soil, to the depth of thin roots, avoiding contact with the thick rhizome.

To obtain large plants of exhibition quality (especially tall irises), planting is practiced on two-layer raised beds. The bottom layer of soil consists of compost with the addition of dolomite flour, long-acting mineral fertilizers or phosphorus-potassium complex, the top layer of the ridge (10-15 cm) is sand.

Planting

Irises can be planted and replanted with a clod of soil from May to September, the best time is July, since at this time the active growth of new roots begins. Planting young trees should begin with disinfection. To do this, it is enough to withstand them for 15-30 minutes. in a pink solution of potassium permanganate. If the weather is sunny, place the cuttings in the sun for several days so that the rhizome is illuminated from all sides. This “tanning” destroys pathogenic bacteria and promotes better survival and formation of flower buds.

Perennial rhizomes should remain on the soil surface when planting. Make a hole with a scoop, pour earth into a mound at the bottom (or best of all, a mixture of sand and wood ash). Hold the rhizome level with the soil surface, spread the roots along the sides of the mound, as if planting a tree astride the mound. Fill the hole by pressing the soil tightly around the roots with your hands. Water thoroughly to ensure the division does not fall over. There is no need to water the plantings anymore; it is important that all planted plants maintain a vertical position and the rhizome is not buried. The planted cuttings can be supported from the leaves with sticks or stones; after 2-3 weeks, new growing roots will provide the plant with proper contact with the soil.

And the last step, optional but very forward-thinking, is to install a label with the name of the variety. A disposable plastic knife would work well as such a label. Write the name of the variety with a permanent marker and stick it next to the plant.

The taller the iris, the more space it needs. And the more often you plant irises, the sooner you will have to plant the plants. When planting irises in groups, it is advisable to place the plants at a distance from each other: for tall irises 30-40 cm, for medium-sized ones - 15-20, for dwarf ones - 10-15 cm. During the growth process, bearded irises move, the rhizome moves forward along the soil surface, therefore, when planting in a border, all cuttings should face one direction; it is better to orient the cut on the rhizome to the south-eastern sector, so the rhizome will be better illuminated and warmed up. When planting in nests, the divisions are placed with cuts towards the center.

CARE OF BEARDED IRISES

In the spring, after the snow melts, it may seem that the irises have died, but do not rush to conclusions. If the rhizome is hard, after 1-2 weeks the iris will turn lushly green. Treat the iris and the soil around it with ash or one of the fungicides. Wood ash for irises is both a hygiene product and a fertilizer; it is applied several times a season.

Most often, the upper part of the rhizome with the flower bud freezes out. Cut the damaged area down to solid healthy tissue as soon as possible. Irises lay renewal buds on the sides of the rhizomes, so even a radically “operated” iris still has a chance of survival. Fresh cuts on the rhizome should always be disinfected. Here are the remedies from the extensive experience of practitioners; a mixture of sulfur and charcoal, brilliant green, fucorcin, potassium permanganate, metronidazole powder. Try to provide the rhizomes with maximum illumination; solar ultraviolet light is the best means of combating bacteriosis.

The moisture requirement of bearded irises is covered by the amount of natural precipitation; they do not need regular watering; watering is desirable in dry summers for tall irises during the flowering period. In the non-chernozem zone, the development and winter hardiness of plants can be stimulated with the help of fertilizing. In spring, nitrogen-phosphorus (3:1), during budding - nitrogen-phosphorus-potassium (1:1:1), 2-3 weeks after flowering - phosphorus-potassium (1:1). Fertilizers are applied to moist soil, preventing granules from getting on the rhizome.
Prevention and protection against diseases

Basic care for irises comes down to disease prevention. The occurrence of rot, caused by various types of bacteria, is facilitated by dampness, excess organic matter, thickened plantings and long-term cultivation in one place. When a disease is detected, there is only one method of control: the affected part of the plant is cut out, the remaining part is treated with fungicidal agents (see above).

An effective measure for the prevention and control of rots of various origins is the introduction of live bacterial preparations (Trichodermin, Glyocladin) into the soil under irises, which suppress the development of pathogenic microorganisms. Spring sowing of annual green manure crops (white mustard, phacelia) in areas intended for summer planting of irises, followed by planting them to a depth of about 20 cm, will improve the soil and provide the irises with optimal nutrition.

In the second half of summer, brown spots and yellowing ends can be seen on the foliage of irises. Spots caused by various pathogens do not directly threaten the life of the plant, but they spoil the appearance and can affect winter hardiness. Help to keep the foliage healthy: regular preventive spraying of foliage with fungicides (foundazol, Maxim,

0.2% copper oxychloride), spacious planting, pre-winter pruning of leaves (and even subsequent whitewashing with lime).

Wintering

Irises of domestic selection and time-tested foreign varieties, which have been grown for quite a long time in the middle zone, are distinguished by the greatest winter hardiness. For most irises, 30 cm of snow is sufficient protection from frost. The most vulnerable are the new items in the world selection of tall irises. The potential of their winter hardiness and methods of covering have to be established experimentally.

Most dwarf and medium-sized irises in gardens near Moscow can overwinter without shelter. In tall irises in November, before the cold weather, the rhizomes are covered with 8-10 cm of soil, and when the soil is frozen, they are covered with spruce branches or any breathable material.

The most reliable way to cover bearded irises is “dry wintering”.

In rainy autumn, a low, rigid canopy is installed over the irises so that the soil remains dry and the shelter is blown through. With the onset of the first frost, the foliage is cut off at a height of 10 cm, the plants are sprayed with fungicide and covered with lutrasil over the canopy.

A small number of plants can be covered with mesh plastic boxes and lutrasil or caps made of plastic containers with holes at the bottom. Any method that allows you to maintain air circulation under the shelter is good.

Unpretentious but spectacular irises have long been loved by gardeners. They look luxurious in flower beds and beautiful flower beds. These perennial rhizomatous plants are famous for their endless variety of shapes and color palette. If you are attracted to irises, the varieties with photos and names that are presented in the article will help you choose the most beautiful and original type of flower crop.

More than 4,000 varieties of irises are known

The classification of irises is simply impressive; moreover, there are currently more than 4,000 varieties. They often have different shapes, colors and sizes. Every year, breeders discover new varieties, thereby replenishing the rich collections of world selection. Many of them are selected for exhibitions.

The most common types include the following groups, namely:

• bearded and beardless irises;
• bulbous;
• interspecific and specific hybrids;
• xyphiums.

The above groups are conventionally divided into a number of groups, among which the most popular are standard dwarfs, border bearded, Siberian, Japanese, Californian, standard tall irises and other plant species.

Pictured is bearded iris Babeling Brook

To choose the appropriate variety of irises, we recommend looking at photos of the most beautiful and aesthetically attractive flowers. You will get acquainted with some of them in the article. Experienced florists recommend giving preference to those species that are suitable for growing in a particular region, taking into account the climate.

Varieties of bearded irises, photos with names

Bearded iris Babeling Brookis a luxurious flower with an original shape. Its height is approximately 80 cm. The flowering period occurs around June. It is better to plant the plant in an area protected from the wind; it prefers light soils. The color of the petals is pale blue. Looks ideal when planted in a group.

In the photo is the bearded iris Arkady Raikin

Arkady Raikin, the photo of which is in the article belongs to the group of tall irises. The flowering period of this masterpiece is average. Its reddish-pink color is combined with a contrasting orange border. The aroma of iris is pronounced.

Photo of bearded iris Sambuca

bearded iris Sambucaflaunts on a branched and fairly strong peduncle. The flowering period usually occurs in July. The height of the plant is 75 cm. The petal is dark purple in color. As for propagation, it can be obtained by seed or vegetatively.

In the photo there is a bearded iris Elbrus Diamond

Elbrus Diamond is a large bearded iris with an orange-red beard. It belongs to the group of tall plants of this species. It has a strong aroma, medium ripening time and disease resistance.

In the photo there is a bearded iris Sapphire Dawn

Sapphire dawn- another popular variety of irises. The play of its rich blue shades will delight even the most demanding florist. The petals of this variety are wavy and somewhat corrugated, with a fluffy-delicate beard in the center.

In the photo there is a bearded iris Burgomaster

Bearded iris Burgomaster– one of the best representatives of its class. Its bush is quite dense, and it has a mass of graceful petals with a corrugated edge. They are distinguished by their purple coloration with orange accents in the center. The aroma of Burgomaster is light, the flower size is medium, as can be seen in the photo.

There are many other varieties of bearded irises; photos, names and descriptions can be found on the Internet. These include the following types: Blue Staccato, Gvardeisky, Starfall, Sultan Palace, Wabash, Prejender, Summer Night, Gold of Canada and other varieties of irises.

Video about iris varieties:

Delicate and bright irises, varieties with photos and names are a popular topic for discussion among gardeners and owners. The demand for these flowers is due not only to their decorative purpose. They are also known for their medicinal properties. Even jam is made from the petals of these plants. We suggest you plant at least one of the iris varieties on your site.

The variety of shapes and colors, the bizarre beauty of the flower give the iris every right to be called a “northern orchid”. Neither drawings nor photographs can fully convey the graceful lines of these exquisite flowers, the play of color and light, and the varied texture of the flower.

Irises may look velvety, or can shimmer with a silky or satin shine, play with small sparkles, like snow in the sun.

Iris scent will not yield to the aromas of oriental spices: they can smell like vanilla and allspice, wisteria and lilac, valerian and even seaweed.

Iris belongs to the Iris family (Iridaceae Juss). This family has more than a hundred genera and 1,700 species, found on all continents. Many ornamental bulbous, corm and rhizomatous perennials are included in this family: iris, gladiolus, crocus, tigridia, freesia, montbretia, ixia and a number of other, less known, but very ornamental plants.

The Iris genus is the most extensive. Its flowers are very unique: they have no sepals or petals. The beauty of the flower is made up of six petal-shaped perianth lobes - three upper (internal) and three lower (external).

Master Touch - champion of the USA, Canada, Italy, Australia and Russia

Elizabeth Noble (Elizabeth Noble). Smith, 1953

Tiburon (Tiburon). Gauter, 1971

Latin Lover (Latin Laver). Snoop, 1969

Winner's Circle (Winner's Circle). Plough, 1972

Dutch Chocolate (Dach Choklet). Schreiner's, 1970

Navaho Blanket (Navajo Blenkit). Schreiner's, 1978

Starburst. Tompkins, 1967

Stepping Out (Stepping Out). Schreiner's, 1964

The basis of the variety of irises is the class of tall bearded irises. According to the American classification, it is divided into six groups:

- MDB- the earliest flowering, so-called miniature dwarf bearded irises with a peduncle up to 25 cm high;

- S.D.B.- standard dwarf bearded irises with a peduncle 25-36 cm high;

- I.B.- early varieties with a peduncle height of 37-69 cm and flowers with a diameter of 7.5-12.5 cm;

- MTV- the so-called miniature bearded irises, with a peduncle height of 37-69 cm and a flower diameter of 5-7.5 cm;

- BB- border bearded late-flowering irises with a peduncle height of 37-69 cm and a flower with a diameter of 7.5 cm or more;

- TV- all tall varieties with a peduncle above 70 cm and unlimited flower sizes.

In many European countries, America, Japan and Australia, iris is one of the most common and beloved perennials. In our country, unfortunately, this crop is not yet so popular, although its relative unpretentiousness and high decorative qualities should provide the iris with a worthy place in the design of gardens and parks.

When landscaping it is necessary pay attention to the selection of varieties not only for decorative qualities, but also for flowering periods, which will allow you to admire the flowers of this beautiful perennial for a long time from June to mid-July. Irises can be planted in borders, borders, single plantings, and in groups on lawns.

It is good to complement plantings with small bulbous crops, various types of sedum and saxifrage, interspersed with daffodils, lilies, and colchicum. Irises combine very harmoniously with stones of various shapes and sizes, because in nature many species grow on rocky screes, among boulders.

Selection and preparation of a site for planting irises

Irises grow best in a sunny location., protected from the winds, on light loamy soils of neutral, slightly acidic or slightly alkaline reaction. They can grow even on clean sands provided they are fed regularly. Sand and peat should be added to heavy clay soils.

Bearded irises do not tolerate stagnant moisture, especially on heavy soils. In this case, it is necessary to plant them in high flower beds and ridges, or arrange drainage. Before planting, the area must be dug to the depth of a garden spade. When preparing the soil, pay special attention to clearing it of perennial rhizomatous weeds. Particularly dangerous; sow thistle, creeping wheatgrass.

Propagation of irises, dividing and replanting irises

Varietal irises, like many other perennials, are propagated only vegetatively. Seeds are used exclusively for breeding purposes and for propagation of species. The branched rhizome of the bearded iris consists of individual thickened links - shortened annual shoots.

A planting division can consist of one or two fused annual links. The rhizome is broken or cut. Cutting tools must be disinfected with a strong solution of potassium permanganate (potassium permanganate).

Old delenki without leaves and living roots they are usually not used, but if there is a lack of planting material, even these can be planted. Old rhizomes and even cuttings of rhizomes germinate, increasing the reproduction rate. Before planting, the leaves of the divisions are shortened by two-thirds, young roots by half, old roots are completely removed.

Divide and replant bushes recommended after three to four years. Otherwise, in the fifth or sixth year, flowering weakens and thickening leads to rotting of the rhizomes. Without digging up the entire bush from the ground, you can use part of it for propagation. It is advisable to cut out those branches of the rhizomes that are intertwined with each other. A bush rejuvenated by such an operation will bloom profusely for another one or two years. Using this technique, you can cultivate irises in one place for up to six years.

Method of bud propagation of irises

If there is a lack of planting material, the bud propagation method is used. At the base of each leaf, the rhizomes bear bud buds. On individual links they become large. Then the leaf fan should be cut off by two-thirds, the old roots should be removed, the young roots should be trimmed, leaving them 2-3 cm long, and part of the rhizome with the leaf fan should be cut off.

Then you need to cut the rhizome lengthwise into two parts and crosswise into cuttings 1.5-2 cm long. Disinfected for 15 minutes in a dark pink solution of potassium permanganate and dried, the cuttings are planted in rows to a depth of 2-3 cm in washed or calcined sand.

Bud cutting method justifies itself when you need to get the largest number of plants from a small number of mother bushes in the shortest possible time. In all other cases, iris varieties are easier to propagate by dividing the bushes.

Planting, planting time for irises

The best time to plant irises is July-August. In July, the irises begin their second wave of growth, the roots grow intensively, so they take root very well. By August, the formation of young rhizomes, which will flower next year, ends. Therefore, nurseries sell irises in August.

Before the end of the growing season, they manage to take root well, and next year one link of the rhizome will form a strong bush, if it is not allowed to bloom.
When planting late in autumn, the plants do not have time to take root, and late autumn or early spring frosts squeeze them out of the soil.

Handling bushes, when the root system is taken with a lump of earth, performed if necessary at any time during the growing season.

It is very important to maintain the correct planting depth: the upper part of the rhizome should be located at the level of the soil surface. When planted deeply, the rhizomes either rot or are delayed in development and form stolons to reach the soil surface. When planting in groups, it is recommended to plant irises according to a 30x30 cm pattern, and for row planting - 30x60 or 30x100 cm.

Caring for irises, how to fertilize

On poor soils per season growing season must be carried out at least three feedings mineral fertilizers:

- When plants begin to grow, they are fed with nitrogen-phosphorus fertilizers in a ratio of 3:1.

- Then after two or three weeks- nitrogen-potassium (1:1).

- After two to three weeks after flowering, nitrogen-phosphorus-potassium fertilizers are applied (3:1:3).
This is very important for the flowering of irises next year.

It is not recommended to apply fertilizers later, especially nitrogen ones. so as not to increase the green mass of the plant. This may prevent the rhizomes from fully preparing for wintering. For the same reason, it is not recommended to water irises from mid-August. Irises only need watering during drought. However, during planting, during budding and when applying fertilizers, watering is required.

- After flowering, it is necessary to remove the flower stalks, since in rainy weather they can rot. In October, iris leaves are cut at a height of 10-15 cm.

Now many frost-resistant varieties have been bred, which do not require shelter in the temperate zone - they almost do not freeze. More heat-loving varieties are sprinkled with a 5 cm thick layer of earth or peat, and spruce branches are placed on top.

Irises are not afraid of severe frosts, if the snow cover is at least 20 cm deep. They suffer much more from autumn and early spring snowless frosts.

Helen Collingwood (Helen Collingwood). Smith, 1949. Two-colored, the upper perianth lobes (UPS) are white, sparkling, the lower perianth lobes (NDL) are velvety, dark purple, the beard is yellow. Height 90 cm. Mid-late, late. Resistant to diseases, grows very quickly.

Elizabeth Noble (Elizabeth Noble). Smith, 1953. Two-color, VDO - white, sparkling, NDO - velvety, dark purple, light yellow beard. Medium flowering period. Height 90 cm. Resistant to diseases, grows very quickly.

Tiburon (Tiburon). Gauter, 1971. One-color, deep lilac, corrugated, lace, sparkling. The beard is bright red. Height 90 cm. Medium flowering period.

Latin Lover (Latin Lover). Snoop, 1969. Two-color, VDO - sparkling, pink, slightly corrugated, NDO - velvety, bright purple, dense. Height 90 cm. Medium flowering period.

Winner's Circle (Winner's Circle). Plow, 1972. Single-color dark purple, with a striking white stroke on the lower back near the beard. The perianth lobes are wide, dense, velvety, slightly corrugated. Height 85 cm. Flowering begins with early varieties and ends with late ones.

Dutch Chocolate (Dach Choklet). Schreiner's, 1970. Single-color dark chocolate with a cherry tint, the perianth lobes are dense, silky, slightly corrugated. Height 90 cm. Medium early.

Margarita (Margarita). Schreiner's, 1968. Two-color, VDO - sparkling, lilac-white, NDO - velvety, wide, light purple with a melting light lilac border. The perianth lobes are dense, slightly corrugated. Height 95 cm. Medium late.

Navaho Blanket (Navajo Blanket). Schreiner's, 1978. Two-color, VDO - light lilac with a golden edge, sparkling, NDO - velvety, dark purple, almost horizontal, very dense, wide. Height 85 cm. Early - mid-early.

Starburst. Tompkins, 1967. Single-color copper-red, silky, slightly ruffled. Height PO, see Medium late.

Dotted Swiss (Dotted Swiss). Sass, 1956. Plicata (hatched or speckled border) is blue on a white background. The perianth lobes are dense, sparkling, slightly corrugated. Height 90 cm. Medium early.

Stepping Out. Schreiner's, 1964. Plicata inky purple on a white background. The perianth lobes are dense, sparkling, slightly corrugated. Height 95 cm. Medium late.

All these varieties grow well, do not require shelter for the winter, and are quite resistant to pests and diseases.

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