I. unguicularis propagation

[Pauli]

I have a big clump of var. cretensis growing in my bulb frame. After some years it is a speedy grower now and grows over Frits and Cyclamens. It is showing buds now. When is the best time to divide it (cut off the edges?). I am not sure - now in spring or after the summer rest when growth resumes?

[GordonT]

Hello Herbert, The best time to propagate Iris unguicularis is from late summer to autumn, just when growth resumes. Getting the divisions into the ground quickly is also worthwhile. Plants have a better chance to re-establish with actively growing roots.

[johnralphcarpenter]

I find they are very slow to re-establish. Patience required!

[Lesley Cox]

I'd go for a time when it's in active growth too, and yes, not the easiest to re-establish the bits, and slow. I had a seed pod on mine this last spring, the first after 20 years.

[Pauli]

Thanks for your kind help - I will wait till September!