Divide Irises in March

Credit: Jupiter Images

If you are talking about Iris siberica – the grassy-type thin foliage usually with blue or purply-blue flowers – not always – then yes, it is almost time to divide them. In my yard the foliage has barely begin to reappear so it is no problem. As long as the foliage has not grown too much – maybe six inches tall or less, go ahead. Once it gets taller you might harm the buds that are forming and it’s just more difficult. If it’s the other kind of iris (sometimes called “flags”) it’s also fine to divide them now as well.