First standard dwarf bearded iris to bloom in my garden

The first standard dwarf bearded iris (SDB) to bloom in my garden in 2017 is 'Zippo'.  Introduced by Ginny Spoon, 'Zippo' has striking white beards which stand out against the deep violet flower.  The color is much darker than it appears in the picture.  Although listed as a repeat bloomer in zone 6, it has not rebloomed in my garden.

White beards

Lynda Miller is a hybridizer who has created a number of iris in different classes of bearded iris.  Her 'Jot' which is a miniature dwarf bearded iris (MDB) was introduced in 2010.  'Jot' has a small flower with a beard you can't miss and it multiplies quite rapidly.

Iris suaveolens

Another early blooming miniature dwarf bearded iris (MDB) is the tiny species Iris suaveolens whose name first appeared in print in 1853.  These diminutive flowers don't exhibit modern form or colors but they hug the ground with slightly curving leaves which have a charm all their own.

Second bearded iris to bloom.

The second miniature dwarf bearded iris (MDB) to bloom in my garden in 2017 is 'Navy Doll' which burst into bloom today.  It was hybridized by Alta Brown and introduced by Brown's Iris Gardens in 1968.  It's an oldie but goody that I've enjoyed growing for a number of years.

First bearded iris to bloom in my garden in 2017

Here's a picture of a bloom on 'Spring Beacon' which opened today in Enfield, NY.  'Atroviolacea' is usually the first to bloom in my garden but the buds which had color before our last frost failed to open.  'Spring Beacon' was from a cross Don Spoon made between 'Atroviolacea' and 'Lighthouse Beacon.'  All three are miniature dwarf bearded (MDB) iris.  What's blooming in your garden?

Meeting: April 30, 2 PM Honeoye Falls

Join us for ur next regular meeting. It's perfect for beginnings!

Our usual presentation time will be devoted to informal discussions.  Ask questions, share photos, and look forward to the 2017 bloom season!  Bring along catalogs you have received share your favorites. We'll be able to search the internet and project your selections.  Have your own photos you'd like to share? Send them to neil.houghton@me.com.  Any inquiries can also be directed to that email address.

Model Questions:

• What iris borers? How can I combat them?
• Some of my irises don't bloom (anymore). Why?
• How can I extend my iris season?
• When and what should I feed my iris?
• Are there any iris that will tolerate shade?
• What companion plants are best for iris. 

We'll also be talking about our annual iris show, sale and hosting the Region 2 meeting in October.  Our guest in the fall will be Chad Harris from Mount Pleasant Iris Farm along the Columbia River in Washougal, Washington. The presentation on Oct, 21 will be open to the public on a limited basis, but members get priority.

While our meetings are open to all, dues are only $10/year.  For another $10 you can join the American Iris Society (AIS).  This is a limited offer for what is usually $30.  Come and learn of how you can save on irises from participating growers with an AIS membership.