| I live in what is supposed to be Zone 7b, but on a mountain (elevation approx. 1500 ft.) where it is somewhat colder than low-lying areas in 7b. I planted a bunch of Dutch Iris bulbs 2 years ago in the fall, because I wanted a short iris that wouldn't block the view of lilies planted behind them. The bed is well-drained, on the edge of the woods. It gets full sun in the spring, but by the time the trees are fully leafed out, the bed is in partial shade (morning sun, afternoon shade). The bulbs sent up spindly foliage in the spring both years, but never bloomed. Are they not getting enough sun, or is it some other problem? I have some large bearded iris (don't know what variety - they were given to me) in another bed that gets even less sun, and they are doing fine. Suggestions? |
| Susan, I think the sun exposure they are getting is fine and their foliage is rather spindly to begin with. Your bulbs may need more time to get established and build up their reserves in order to bloom well. Sometimes bulbs are picky and do well in one spot in the yard but not another. Trial and error is the best way to find them a good spot. I would give them another spring to see if they are going to perform and if not them move them to another spot. Thanks for the question. Please stop in again soon! |
