What do you care for a Dwarf Lake iris?

Care for a dwarf lake iris by planting it in a good location, watering, mulching, fertilizing and pruning. You need well-drained soil, a garden fork, water, mulch or compost, fertilizer and pruning shears.

1. Plant the iris in a good location

   Plant the dwarf lake iris in gravelly and calcareous soil that is well-drained and only slightly acidic. If the soil is too compact, loosen it using a garden fork. Choose a location that receives plenty of sun and no shade. A lack of sunlight results in a lack of flowering.

2. Water the plant

   Water the iris regularly. However, do not overwater it as this can lead to root rot.

3. Mulch the plant

   If the soil is of poor quality or heavy, add compost or mulch. Mix 4 inches of mulch into the first 12 inches of soil.

4. Fertilize the plant

   Regularly fertilize the plant after it blooms using a 5-10-10 ratio fertilizer. Avoid fertilizers high in nitrogen because they can cause the rhizomes and other parts of the plant to rot.

5. Prune the plant

   Prune away dead or faded flowers. Once flowering is over, trim the stalk down to the base of the plant. Be careful to avoid cutting off leaves, which are an important component of the next year's growth.