How to Move Bearded Irises

Bearded Irises are beautiful plants that can be a great addition to any flowerbed. However, the plant will sometimes outgrow the flowerbed and need to be move to a new location. This is a task that can be easily done in less than an hour. 

1.
Find a location for the Iris that you want to move. Summer is the best time to move the Iris so that it can grow new roots before the season is over.

2.
Dig a hole that is shallow but wide enough to cover the rhizome. This can be adjusted once you have the plant uprooted.

3.
Cut the leaves of the Bearded Iris down to 6 inches. This will make the plant easier to handle and move.

4.
Dig around the plant using a garden fork. You want to dig about a half foot from the center rhizomes to prevent any damage. Uproot the plant once you have loosened the soil around it.

5.
Place the Iris in the hole of the new location you dug out earlier. The rhizomes should be near the surface. The tops should be visible. If the hole is too shallow or too deep, remove or add soil until you have it just right.

6.
Fill the hole with dirt once the Iris is in place. If the rhizomes poke out oddly, you can widen your hole a little more.

7.
Water the Iris generously after you have it settled in its new location. You want to continue to water the plant for a few days.