Slightly off topic- Iris unguicularis
Dennis Kramb (Mon, 25 Oct 2004 21:27:10 PDT)

At 11:03 PM 10/25/2004, you wrote:

I just received two very small rhizomes of Iris unguicularis from an
internet mail order nursery. They were sent to me in a very dessicated
state. Is this typical for the species? Can I expect them to repsond to
planting and H20?

Thanks,

Steve

What I consider "dryland" irises (such as bearded irises and some beardless
species like Iris unguicularis) I have found to be VERY resilient to drying
out. I would recommend against watering them when first planted. Too much
moisture invites them to rot. I've lost a lot of bearded irises this
way! My best results have come from just planting them in the ground and
letting them get settled in with the natural rains.

With that said, I don't know if you live in a place where you actually get
natural rain this time of year. I know a lot of members here are from
faraway places compared to my humble home in Cincinnati. So perhaps you
can adjust my advice to your own situation.

By the way, it's not normal for Iris unguicularis rhizomes to be
desiccated. A healthy rhizome should have green leaves and be relatively
hard (just like a fresh potato should be). I am fully confident yours will
bounce back. Irises are very tough plants!

Dennis in Cincy