Plants & Profits: Iris

Suggest iris when customers ask for…

• Something that can be used as a cut flower
• A “traditional” garden flower
• A perennial that’s easy to divide and share
• A “collectible” perennial selection
• A low-maintenance perennial

{The story}
The genus Iris contains 200-300 species, and while there are often significant differences between the species, their stereotypical flowers are instantly recognizable to the majority of people: three drooping sepals, or “falls,” and three upright petals, or “standards.” This unique form resulted from a co-evolutionary development between insects and the plant to ensure that no flower is self pollinated. Visiting bees brush across the stigma and deposit pollen from other iris. They then pick up pollen from this flower as they back out over the anthers and go on their way to visit other blooms. Culture and history information courtesy of Plant Publicity Holland. Read more at www.PerennialandNurseryNews.com.

Display and marketing possibilities

• Use bearded iris in how-to clinics demonstrating how to divide perennials.
• Include iris in pre-planned garden packages that offer four seasons of color.
• Host a swap meet where customers can trade iris and other perennials.
• Partner with your local iris collectors’ club or society on a special event.
• Run an iris photo competition. Display the best photos in your company e-newsletter.