Is it too late to plant iris bulbs?

Susan
by Susan
Does anyone know if I can still plant iris bulbs outside this late. How about indoor then transplant in the spring? Got a great deal on some bulbs but I really don't want to kill them.

Thanks!
Sue
  5 answers
  • Dac15740339 Dac15740339 on Dec 13, 2016

    The optimum planting time is when the night time temps are 40-50 degrees; if you miss that window, then either plant them anyway, as long as the ground isn't frozen, or keep them in the fridge until the ground thaws enough to plant them. If they are planted very late in winter or early, early spring, they may not bloom the first year but they will still establish their root systems and bloom next year; the worse thing you can do is to leave them in a bag in the basement or shed - they will either rot or get a fungus -- or both.

  • Janet Pizaro Janet Pizaro on Dec 13, 2016

    That will depend on your location.If the ground is not frozen it will still be fine. Do not try to plant them indoors they are a bulb that must harden off in the ground.

  • Susan Susan on Dec 13, 2016

    Perfect! I'm in NC and the ground is still soft! Thank you!


    Sue

  • Shawna Bailey Shawna Bailey on Dec 14, 2016

    Yes, in NC it's still warm enough to plant them.

  • Susan Susan on Dec 14, 2016

    Thank you!