Bring lasting color to your garden with beautiful, locally grown irises! The Monterey Bay Iris Society will hold its Annual Iris Rhizome Sale at the Aptos Farmers Market at Cabrillo College on Saturday, August 8, beginning at 8 a.m.

Gardeners are encouraged to arrive early for the best selection.

The sale features healthy iris rhizomes from the private collections of Monterey Bay Iris Society members. Visitors can expect an impressive assortment of colors and varieties, including the tall bearded irises for which the annual sale is especially well known.

Experienced iris growers will be available to answer questions, help shoppers select varieties, and provide printed information about planting and caring for irises.

An Excellent Choice for Central Coast Gardens
Irises are especially well suited to gardens in the Monterey Bay region. They bloom spectacularly in spring, require relatively little summer water once established, and thrive in our mild climate.

With plenty of sunlight, well-drained soil, and a little seasonal care, irises can provide years of colorful blooms. They are also easy to divide and share, making them a rewarding choice for both beginning and experienced gardeners.

How to Plant Iris Rhizomes
Late summer and early fall—particularly August and September—are ideal times to plant iris rhizomes in our area. Planting during this period allows the rhizomes to establish roots before cooler weather arrives.

Choose a location with well-drained soil and at least six hours of sunlight each day.

Dig a wide, shallow hole and create a small mound of soil in the center. Place the rhizome on top of the mound and gently spread the roots around it. Cover the roots with soil, leaving the upper surface of the rhizome exposed or only barely covered. Planting too deeply can prevent the iris from blooming properly.

Space rhizomes approximately 18 to 24 inches apart, depending on the variety and the amount of room available.

Water thoroughly after planting and keep the soil lightly moist—not soggy—until new roots and leaves begin to grow. Once established, irises generally require less frequent watering.

If your garden has sandy soil, adding compost can help improve moisture retention. Heavy soils may benefit from amendments that improve drainage.

Fertilizing and Seasonal Care
Apply a balanced, low-nitrogen fertilizer in late winter and again several weeks before bloom. Avoid placing fertilizer directly against the rhizome.

In the Monterey Bay area, most irises bloom during April and May. After flowering, remove spent bloom stalks, but allow the green leaves to remain so they can continue nourishing the rhizome for the following year.

Join the Monterey Bay Iris Society
The Monterey Bay Iris Society welcomes gardeners of all experience levels. The group meets on the third Friday evening of each month and offers opportunities to learn from experienced growers, discover new iris varieties, and connect with other local gardening enthusiasts.

For membership information, contact Brenda Wood at (831) 818-4515 or visit the Monterey Bay Iris Society’s website.

Don’t miss this opportunity to take home locally grown iris rhizomes—and plenty of expert advice—at the Aptos Farmers Market on Saturday, August 8.