Every three to five years, bearded iris should be divided. The best time is late-August to mid-September (zones 6 & 7) to give plants time to establish a good root system before winter and avoid frost heaving. To divide the iris, loosen the soil around the plants with a spading fork, then gently lift the rhizomes (underground stems) out of the ground. Remove excess dirt from the plant so that the growth pattern is apparent. If possible break or pull apart to separate or use a sharp knife to cut between the rhizomes. Trim back leaves to one-third their length so that these newly planted divisions will not be pulled from the soil by strong wind or because they were top heavy. Check the iris during the winter for signs of frost heaving and replant or mulch to protect.
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