Iris 'Magical Encounter'

bearded iris

• Position: full sun
• Soil: well-drained, moderately fertile, neutral to acidic soil
• Rate of growth: average
• Flowering period: May and June
• Flower colour: pale pink with an apricot flush
• Other features: all parts of the plant may cause severe discomfort if ingested
• Hardiness: fully hardy
  
  Apricot-pink flowers with salmon-pink beards appear on the tall branching stems from late spring. A soft and unusual tone, the flowers will mix easily with a range of colours including browns, maroons, and nearly all the pastel shades. When not in flower the fans of sword-shaped foliage will offer vertical movement and structure to the border right up until mid- to late-autumn. Like all irises, it is worth preparing the soil before planting by adding plenty of well rotted manure or good garden compost to provide nitrogen and other nutrients.
  
  
• Garden care: Bearded irises prefer full sun and neutral-alkaline soil but if you have acidic or peaty soils you can top dress with lime before planting for good results. Plant shallowly with the upper part of the rhizome sitting on the surface of the soil, incorporating a low nitrogen fertiliser in the planting hole. After planting remove the upper-most third of the leaves to protect against wind-rock. In exposed areas stake with bamboo canes in early spring. Divide and replant about every three years.
  
  

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