How to Transplant Irises

Irises are beautiful and resilient plants. They may need to be transplanted to a different location if they have outgrown the garden or if you have found a better home for them. Transplanting irises are relatively easy and don’t require too much work.

1.
Dig up the plant using a spade. A garden fork will work just fine as well. Don't worry about cutting into the rhizomes. Most will still grow even after they have been cut.

2.
Shake soil loose from the roots and then wash away any excess dirt that is remaining. You want to be able to see where the rhizomes are attached so that you'll be able to cut them.

3.
Cut between the rhizomes. There may be some mushy or discolored rhizomes. Those are the ones you want to throw out because they will not bloom again.

4.
Lay out the iris rhizomes in the shady and dry area for a few days. This will allow the cuts to mend before you plant them.

5.
Dig a shallow hole for plant while you wait for them to heal. You want to place the irises in an area that will get plenty of sunlight, at least six hours.

6.
Plant the irises in the hole. The rhizomes should be level with the soil surface. Irises can't bloom if they have been planted too deep. Cover with soil once you have the plant placed properly.

7.
Water the plant regularly for the first few weeks.