Dutch Iris - Dark Blue - 25 bulbs p-pack

The Dutch Iris is a hardy, spring-flowering bulb that produces elegant, tall stems with striking blue, purple, white, or yellow flowers. It is an easy-to-grow, drought-tolerant plant well-suited to South African gardens.

1. Best Growing Conditions

Climate:

• Thrives in Mediterranean, temperate, and highveld climates.

• Ideal for Western Cape, Gauteng, Free State, and parts of KwaZulu-Natal and Eastern Cape.

• Tolerates mild frost but needs cool winters for best flowering.

Sunlight:

• Prefers full sun to light shade (at least 6 hours of direct sun).

Soil Requirements:

• Well-draining, loamy or sandy soil is ideal.

• pH: 6.0—7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral).

• If soil is heavy clay, add compost and sand for better drainage.

2. Planting Dutch Iris Bulbs

Best Planting Time:

• Autumn (March—May) for spring flowering (September—November).

Depth & Spacing:

• Plant bulbs 10—12 cm deep.

• Space 10—15 cm apart in rows or clusters for a natural look.

Container Growing:

• Use deep pots (at least 20 cm deep) with well-draining potting soil.

• Ensure good drainage holes to prevent rot.

3. Watering & Care

Watering:

• Water moderately during the growing season (autumn to spring).

• Reduce watering after flowering as plants enter dormancy.

Fertilizing:

• At planting: Apply bone meal or a balanced bulb fertilizer (5-10-10 or 3-5-5).

• Mid-season: Feed with a potassium-rich fertilizer to support strong flowers.

Mulching:

• Apply a thin layer of organic mulch to retain moisture and reduce weeds.

4. Flowering & Dormancy

Bloom Time:

• Flowers appear in spring (September—November).

• Blooms last for 2—3 weeks, making them excellent cut flowers.

After Flowering Care:

• Allow leaves to die back naturally (don't cut them off early).

• Once foliage turns yellow, stop watering to encourage summer dormancy.

Lifting & Storing Bulbs (Optional):

• Dutch Iris bulbs can stay in the ground year-round in South Africa.

• In very wet summer regions, lift bulbs after dormancy and store in a dry, cool place until replanting in autumn.

5. Pests & Diseases

Common Pests:

• Aphids — Spray with neem oil if necessary.

• Slugs & snails — Use organic traps or barriers.

Disease Issues:

• Fungal rot — Ensure good drainage and avoid overwatering.

• Rust & Leaf Spot — Improve air circulation and remove infected leaves.

6. Propagation

By Bulbs (Easiest Method):

• Dutch Iris multiplies naturally by forming small bulbs.

• Every 2—3 years, divide bulbs in autumn before replanting.

By Seeds (Slower, Rarely Used):

• Can be grown from seed, but takes several years to flower.

7. Companion Planting

• Pairs well with Ranunculus, Anemones, Freesias, and Daffodils for a colorful spring display.

• Ideal for borders, garden beds, containers, and cut flower gardens.

Conclusion

Dutch Iris is a low-maintenance, water-wise spring bulb that thrives in South Africa. With autumn planting, full sun, and well-draining soil, it will reward you with beautiful, long-lasting blooms in spring!