Troubleshooting
Danford Iris problems — and how to fix them
Danford Iris (Iris danfordiae) is generally low-drama, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Bulb splitting after flowering
A well-known trait of this species: the bulb disintegrates into many tiny bulblets after its first flowering, few of which are large enough to re-flower for 2–3 years. Plant at 10–12 cm (4–5 in) deep rather than the standard 5–7 cm, and feed well after flowering to reduce this behaviour.
Iris borer and ink disease
Although more common in bearded irises, Ink spot disease (Drechslera iridis) causes black lesions on bulb scales. Inspect bulbs when planting; discard any with dark staining and avoid waterlogged soils.
Prevent danford iris problems before they start
Most danford iris issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Danford Iris problems — FAQ
Why is my danford iris bulb splitting after flowering?
A well-known trait of this species: the bulb disintegrates into many tiny bulblets after its first flowering, few of which are large enough to re-flower for 2–3 years. Plant at 10–12 cm (4–5 in) deep rather than the standard 5–7 cm, and feed well after flowering to reduce this behaviour.
Why is my danford iris iris borer and ink disease?
Although more common in bearded irises, Ink spot disease (Drechslera iridis) causes black lesions on bulb scales. Inspect bulbs when planting; discard any with dark staining and avoid waterlogged soils.