Walking Iris

Water your Walking Iris regularly during growth, and then reduce the amount of water given once growth slows down. During the growing season, water it every few days to keep the soil moist, but never overly soggy. During winter, let the soil dry out before watering again, and water only enough to keep the rhizomes from drying out. Before watering, check the top layer of soil with your finger. If it feels dry, pour in a few cups of water, until you’ve reached full saturation.

Walking Iris prefers bright, indirect light, making it ideal for growing in a partly shaded area or filtered sun. Make sure to avoid full, direct sunlight and prepare the plants for any unexpected changes in the environment, as this can stunt growth and cause leaf scorch.

This plant likes to be kept around 65 to 70 °F during the day and 55 to 60 °F at night, making it best for indoor and cooler climates. In warmer climates, it's best to plant Walking Iris in partial shade or in outdoor areas that get some relief from the summer heat. Avoid exposing it to temperatures below 50°F.

Walking Iris does not prefer areas with high humidity. It does well in average household humidity levels. If you have particularly dry air, mist the leaves once a day to increase humidity. It's also a good idea to move it away from heat sources like vents and radiators.

Walking Iris prefers a well-draining, loamy soil with a pH of 6.5 to 7.5. The soil should be rich in organic matter and manure. It is also beneficial to mix in some cactus mix or sand to increase drainage or perlite for aeration.

It is important to fertilize your Walking Iris when it's actively growing, which is usually in the spring and summer months. Use a nitrogen-rich fertilizer, such as a 10–10–10, every two months. During the winter, when the plant is in its resting period, do not feed it as this is a time of dormancy.

Walking Iris is fairly resistant to pests, however, it's still important to inspect them regularly for any signs of infestation. Common threats include thrips, aphids, whiteflies, spider mites, slugs, and snails. If you see signs of an infestation, use a non-toxic insecticidal soap or spray to get rid of the pests. Alternatively, try using homemade sprays, made with natural ingredients like garlic and water.

Your Walking Iris will need to be repotted every two to three years to ensure the soil is fresh and nutrient-rich. The best time to repot is in early spring. Start by loosening the roots and gently lift the plant out of the pot. Then, trim off any dead or damaged roots, trim the tips of the new growth, and place it in a container filled with fresh potting soil. Water it well and place it in the same light conditions it is used to.

If necessary, lightly prune faded flowers and foliage when the plant is not in bloom. This will encourage the plant to produce more flowers and foliage in the future. Pruning should be done with clean, sharp shears, and it’s advisable to wear gloves when handling the plant. Deadhead any faded or browning leaves, and remove any branches that are yellowing or have curled or black spots on them.

Mulching your Walking Iris can help keep moisture in the soil and create extra insulation for the cold winter months. Add a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around the base of the plant and replace it at least once a year.

Walking Iris can be propagated through division. To do this, wait until the foliage starts to die down, and then remove the entire plant from the container. Gently untangle the roots and use a sharp, sterile knife to divide the root ball into sections. Plant sections in individual containers and water thoroughly. It is important to only plant as much as you can handle, as division can be time consuming.

Walking Iris doesn't require any support, however, you may want to install a trellis or stake near the center of the plant to prop it up. This plant looks beautiful when allowed to drape off the side of a planter, however, the additional support helps to keep its form.

Walking Iris goes into a resting period in the winter. During this time, the water should be reduced significantly and fertilizer should not be used. This will help the plant conserve energy and promote proper growth in the spring.

No, Walking Iris is not toxic to pets or humans.