How to Transplant Iris Roots

Many types of iris plants exist. Especially popular in home gardens are Dutch iris and bearded iris. Bearded iris, Siberian and Japanese iris grow from underground rhizomes, which form large clumps after growing for several years. To keep your iris healthy and productive, it's wise to dig them up and divide the rhizomes every three to five years. After you separate these fleshy roots, transplant them to another garden area or pot them to use as gifts or to decorate patios and decks.

Clippers
Shovel
Knife
Bleach
Water
Bowl
Compost

Instructions

- 1
  Cut the leaves of your iris to less than one-half of their length.
- 2
  Dig around the outer base of each clump of iris four to six weeks after the plants complete their annual blooming cycle. Use a shovel with a good, sharp point and dig in a circle around the entire clump.
- 3
  Lift the clump of rhizomes from the soil and wash it with a sharp stream from your hose.
- 4
  Divide the clump to create numerous pieces, each having some firm, healthy white roots and a fan of leaves. Cut off all roots that appear dark or mushy.
- 5
  Discard old rhizomes and rhizomes that do not have healthy roots or foliage attached to them.
- 6
  Replant healthy rhizomes in fall to a sunny area where you have added organic compost.

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