Pure Iris Magic

Few plants stop people in their tracks like irises in full bloom. With their elegant petals, striking colors, and hardy nature, irises bring a touch of drama to any garden — and they’re one of our top sellers for good reason. Whether you love the classic deep purple bearded iris or the softer tones of Siberian varieties, there’s an iris for every gardener and every corner of the Four Corners.

Why Irises Are a Local Favorite

• Unbeatable blooms. From jewel-toned purples to buttery yellows and snowy whites, irises explode with color in late spring and early summer.
• Low fuss, high impact. Once established, irises are tough — drought tolerant, deer resistant, and reliable year after year.
• Four-season interest. Even when not in bloom, their vertical sword-like leaves add structure to garden beds.

Where They’ll Do Best

• Durango & Mancos: Perfect in full-sun perennial beds, mixed borders, or naturalized along fences.
• Pagosa & higher elevations: Cold hardy and resilient, irises handle late frosts better than many perennials. They’ll thrive with plenty of sun and good drainage.
• Cortez & Montezuma County: Hot, sunny gardens are ideal, provided they don’t sit in soggy soil.
• Aztec & Northern New Mexico: Irises shine in long, hot growing seasons — just water deeply when establishing.
• USDA Zones: 3–9, depending on variety.

Design Inspiration

• Line a walkway or garden edge with repeating clumps of iris for a bold, architectural look.
• Mix contrasting colors — deep purple next to pure white — for dramatic effect.
• Combine with peonies, daylilies, or ornamental grasses for staggered bloom times and texture.
• Plant near patios or entryways where their fragrance can be enjoyed up close.

Care Snapshot

• Sun: Full sun to light shade.
• Soil: Well-draining — irises hate “wet feet.”
• Water: Moderate. Drought tolerant once established, but bloom better with occasional deep watering.
• Maintenance: Divide clumps every 3–4 years to prevent overcrowding and keep blooms strong.

Local Tip

Plant rhizomes just at the soil surface — bury them too deep and they won’t bloom. In our region, a shallow planting with mulch protection works best.

Ready to Add Irises to Your Garden?

Whether you’re building a bold perennial border or tucking color into a small bed, irises deliver unforgettable beauty with very little effort. No wonder they’re one of the most-loved plants in our nursery.

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