Iris
 Iris are among the best known and best loved of garden plants. There are more than 200 species available, which range from the small Iris reticulata (pictured right) to the magnificent Bearded Iris (pictured left). The most common pets to the Bearded Iris is the Iris Borer. This pest lays eggs inside the leaves of the Iris. The eggs hatch and develop quickly into green worms that tunnel their way down to the rhizomes. The Iris often develops a mushy rot at the base, which can kill the plant if not treated. The best way to avoid Iris Borers is to remove all dead or discolored leaves from the plant. Also, you can dig up the plant and soak the rhizomes in a strong bleach solution and kill the borers.
The chosen habitats for Iris range from standing water to formal borders. Iris come in just about every color in the rainbow.
The reticulata iris is a low-growing bulbous iris that blooms in March to early April in most areas, at about the same time as snowdrops (Galanthus), Grape Hyacinths and the early crocuses. They typically grow to 4” tall. Narrow, grass-like leaves elongate to 15” after bloom, but eventually disappear by late spring as the plants go dormant. Flowers have a sweet fragrance. The species name of reticulata is in reference to the netted or reticulate pattern on the dry bulbs.
 The Japanese Iris (Iris ensata) have huge flowers that resemble Orchids and typically bloom in June and July, well after most other Iris have finished blooming. Japanese Iris require full sun and rich, acid soil and require constant moisture during the growing season. Japanese iris do best if they are divided every three to four years.
The Siberian Iris (Iris sibirica) typically flower beetween late May and  mid-June. They have very thick roots, which make them drought resistnat, but they also thrive in a boggy soil. They are great plants for holding banks in place and an excellent barrier for weeds. After they bloom, the grassy looking leaves remain green throughout the summer.
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