Deer River, MN (Zone 3b) | October 2005 | positive
Intermediate beardeds (IBs) generally do quite well in my growing conditions. This northern MN zone 3b climate inflicts severe, extended ...Read Morecold during the winter months, often with little snow cover for insulation. The summer growing season is short with temps that sometimes exceed 90 degrees F. My soil is very heavy, compacted clay with a slightly acid pH, though I grow my irises in well-amended, raised beds or windrows with improved friability and drainage. A large local deer population frequently tramples and sometimes grazes on my irises in early spring and late fall. Iris borers are present but managed successfully with a granular systemic grub control product. Weeds are abundant and only occasionally beaten back by an admittedly lazy gardener (yours truly). Fertilization is inconsistent, when provided at all. Different beds range from full sun to barely 5-6 hrs of sun a day.
BISTRO makes an eye-catching statement in the iris beds. It is, however, slow to increase. I recommend this cultivar as an accent plant prior to peak TB bloom.
American Iris Society Awards: Honorable Mention 2003
Intermediate beardeds (IBs) generally do quite well in my growing conditions. This northern MN zone 3b climate inflicts severe, extended ...Read More