Irises (Iris spp., hardy in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant Flagstaff hardiness zones 3 through 10) are plants that are fragile. The rhizomes have to be close to the surface, and they require adequate air circulation to prevent mould. Irises are also susceptible to bugs. For these reasons, traditional mulch and groundcover plants that have matting root processes do not work well for iris beds. Selecting the most appropriate sort of groundcover is vital if you would like to keep iris bulbs healthy.
Factors
Keep in mind what you want from the groundcover. Some people only want it to act as camouflage for the base of their irises, but some want the benefits provided by companion planting Miami. Some groundcovers can keep away bugs, rodents and other pests while some do not offer any benefit other than to add complementary blossoms to set off their prized irises. Irises prefer a sight situated in full sun, though in climates that are extremely hot, situating the plants in places receiving partial sunlight throughout the afternoon produces the best outcomes.
In Bloom
Geraniums (Geraniums spp. And cvs., hardy in USDA zones 3 to 8) provide beautiful blossoms that match the tall blooms of irises. Creeping varieties can have vibrant foliage as well, according to the Chicago Botanic Gardens. Geraniums are notoriously easy to look after; soil type, sun conditions and mineral quality of the soil are of little consequence as these plants thrive in a number of environments, though they prefer full sunlight and low-quality soil. In addition to their own easy-care qualities, creeping geraniums are pest-resistant, and their fragrance may even offer help in keeping away some of the bugs that plague irises.
Maintaining Thyme
Creeping thyme (Thymus praecox “Minus”; hardy in USDA zones 4 to 8) is just another groundcover acceptable for iris beds. An evergreen, this plant Long Beach gives a strong fragrance that keeps bugs at bay. Forming dense mats above the ground Boise, the creeping thyme plant Boise also provides protection to the delicate root system of irises. While dense root processes can be a hindrance for growing irises, the aboveground mats help protect the irises’ delicate origins. A perennial, creeping thyme is similar to geranium in that it does well in many different sites and soil types. Based on Washington State University, it actually prefers soil that has little water and very low nutrient quantity.
Flocking to Phlox
Creeping phlox (Phlox subulata, hardy in USDA zones 3b to 10) is a perennial vine that spreads flat and produces tiny blossoms in purple, purple, red and white. Like creeping thyme and perennial geraniums, those plants do well in many different soil types and actually thrive on neglect, leaving nutrients in the ground Fresno for irises. They mat a moderate amount, keeping air flowing around the irises, and they have little discernible scent. Creeping phlox prefers and surroundings situated in full sunlight to partial shade.
