hi, I don't really have too much(or any) experience in growing irises and I've done my research but I was wondering if anyone had any tip or tricks for iris newbies
also any recommendations for types?
what is everyone's favorite coloration?

Hello Moth and welcome to the iris forum family. Since you have done your research you may know everything it takes to grow irises. Are you interested in Bearded Irises or other types? One thing that may be helpful is looking up your local iris chapter and attending a meeting if possible. Best thing is to post your questions here as there is an enormous amount of collective knowledge about growing and loving irises.

welcome to the iris forum moth. you're in for a treat as bloom season has begun for many of us, and there is a lot of eye candy being posted under bloom season 2018, as well as individuals living in the carolinas, and individuals such as bonnie who grow smaller bearded irises have posted separately.

you'll find out about shape, form, color, type and growing conditions which may be more suitable for your tastes and location from these posts. good luck and happy growing.

And another moth.

Moth!

In New Jersey I would say you will have good luck with a large variety of iris: all the bearded iris varieties from Miniature Dwarf Iris to Tall Bearded, Japanese Iris, Siberians, and Spuria especially. It will really depend on which styles of iris you like.

You asked about favorite coloration. Well I love a mix of all the colors. There are many on this site who prefer the blues, or pinks. I like a lot of the blended iris that have a mix of color on their falls, and the reds, and those with space age appendages, but especially those that have a really nice scent.

Welcome Moth!

I think one of the recent national AIS meetings was in NJ and maybe one future one.
There is also an iris vendor in NJ.
I love pastel irises that are ruffled but to each his/her own. I just love them all!!! Moth

You might visit the Presby Iris Garden in NJ. It will have beds for the National convention in 2020 as well as their historic iris collection. I am sure they will be happy to answer questions. they are mainly bearded irises.

Moth,
I love your avatar

In regard to everyone's favourites, there was a recent thread about it
The thread "You really must grow....(recommend your favourites and why)" in Irises forum

There are several threads on this theme posted over the years. For example:
The thread "Top dozen TBs to recommend to a perennial gardener: your nominations" in Irises forum
The thread "Top 10 most wanted list for next year" in Irises forum
The thread "What is your favorite iris? (that you currently own and have seen in bloom) :)" in Irises forum

I think it's time for this years top 10 most wanted. Maybe it should be top 20...

That's a great idea Rob. All I have to do is go through Brad's thread and try to narrow down my selection to just 10.