When it come to slenderize your fleur-de-lis , timing is primal . The ideal time to thin your sword lily is in September . This is because the works are generally done flowering by this clip and are entering a period of dormancy . Thinning your irises every two or three old age is important to maintain their health and vigor .

To begin the cutting process , you will first necessitate to prepare your irises for partitioning . Start by cutting back the leaves to about one - third of their full height . This helps contract focus on the plant life and allows for easier handling during the division physical process . It ’s important to mention that cutting back the leave should be done before digging up the rhizomes ( roots ) .

Once the leaves have been cut back , it ’s time to dig up the rhizomes . Carefully use a garden fork or shovelful to loosen the grunge around the glob of irises . Gently lift the clump out of the land , being heedful not to damage the rhizomes .

Next , you ’ll want to separate the rhizomes . Look for any overcrowded or damage rhizomes that require to be transfer . These can be identified by their modest size of it or any sign of rot or disease . Using a shrill knife or garden shears , carefully cut off the rhizomes apart , making certain each division has a healthy portion of solution and a fan of leaves attach .

As you part the rhizomes , it ’s important to preserve their orientation . Each air division should have a fan of leaves that is confront outward , away from the center of the clump . This guarantee that each new works will have access to sunlight and proper growth conditions .

Once the rhizomes have been divided , it ’s time to replant them . Choose a location in your garden that invite full Dominicus or partial tincture . Irises prefer well - run out soil , so verify the planting area has just drainage . labour a maw wide and deep enough to accommodate the rhizome , making sure the top of the rhizome is level with the filth surface .

locate the rhizome in the cakehole , spread out the roots and ensuring the fan of leaves is look outward . Backfill the pickle with soil , gently firming it around the roots . Water the newly planted rootstock thoroughly to check good dirt touch and to assist settle the plant in place .

Repeat this unconscious process for each partition , space them about 12 to 18 inches aside to allow for proper growth and airflow . After planting , it ’s important to continue watering regularly , specially during dry periods , to promote establishment and healthy increase .

reduce your iris not only facilitate assert their overall health and vigor but also allows for good air travel circulation and reduces the risk of disease . By dividing and replanting your iris every two or three years , you ’ll ensure a beautiful and thriving display of these vulgar man ’s orchids in your garden .

Caroline Bates