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Favorite Photos & Varieties from the 2013 Season, part 2

June 19, 2013, 7:00 am
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By Mike Unser

I hope you enjoyed that first set of photos from my garden this past season. We had so many beautiful blooms, even in a sparse year. Here's the second part of my presentation.

One of my favorites of Jim Gibson's plicatas is the charming 'Mod Mode' (1969). Could it be any prettier with its soft pink edging on a sparkling white ground?


Well, yes, it could! Take a peek inside the flower and check out its lovely heart. A suffusion of sunny yellow lights it up and compliments the pink and white tones perfectly. (click for larger photo)



'Old Black Magic' (Schreiners 1996) is one of a long line of stunning black irises from this famous hybridizing family. While I grow mostly historic irises, the tailored form of OBM is delightful and it is a favorite of garden visitors, too.



It also looks amazing when you take a peek inside. Such colors! Like a living kaleidoscope.



'Parthenon' (Connell, 1934) bloomed the first year in the garden, and my, wasn't it eye-catching. I admired it every time I passed by. Its creamy white infused with soft yellow really allowed it to catch the light.



'Pretty Butterfly' (Sass by Edinger, 1999) is an old Sass variety finally getting a proper registration in 1999. What a pattern! It was nice to see it again after several years of it settling in.



Dr. Kleinsorge's 'Rebellion' (1937) is not a flashy iris, nor an eye-catching one, but for those who notice it does intrigue. The deep smokey red tones are verging on brown. It always makes me think of old tapestries or Persian rugs.



Rhages is a perennial favoite and I was pleased as punch to capture this shot of it with the sun barely lighting it. Just magical.



Everyone raves over 'Tropical Butterfly' (Carstenson, 1963), and rightly so. Big, bold flowers of creamy yellow ground edged in bright red really brings the drama to the garden.



Paul Cook's classic Dyke's Medal winner, 'Whole Cloth' (1956), was a welcome sight. Having lost it several years ago in a move I was very pleased to see it showing off this year on an established clump. The soft blue and white is so fresh and lovely. You can see why it merited irisdom's top award in 1962.



Last, I'll share this pretty shot of an old French variety, 'Zwaneneburg' (Denis, 1912). It has aril in the ancestry yet does very well in my wet Pacific Northwest garden, blooming along with the late daffodils and complimenting them nicely. It is a very tough little iris and a reliable bloomer too. I really liked this shot with the yellow of the daffs behind it.



Well, I hope you have enjoyed a brief tour thru some of the flowers I enjoyed this spring and the photos I took of them. I find photographing my iris collection to be just as fun and rewarding as collecting them in the first place. It's not too late to enter your photos in the AIS Photo Contest. You can click here for information on how to enter. I'm looking forward to seeing your winning photo in an upcoming issue of the society's bulletin Irises.
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BROKEN COLOR IRISES WITH HYBRIDIZER BRAD KASPEREK AT ZEBRA IRIS GARDENS

June 22, 2013, 11:33 pm
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By Susanne Holland Spicker


A recent drive toZEBRA IRIS GARDENS, a commercial iris garden in Elwood, Utah, gave me a "GNU," (as the Kaspereks would say) appreciation for BROKEN COLOR IRISES and a newfound love for SPURIA IRISES. Brad and Kathie Kasperek are the owners/operators of this beautiful iris garden.  It is the world's leading source for broken color (BC) bearded irises, and I was impressed with their large variety of award winning spuria irises as well.
Brad has been hybridizing irises for several years. He has a wealth of knowledge and is recognized as the pioneer of broken color irises, which are flowers with random streaking and/or splashing of 2 or more colors. They come in Tall Bearded (TB), Border Bearded (BB), and Intermediate Bearded (IB) varieties. Visiting with Brad was interesting and very educational. He stated that it takes roughly 100 years to "perfect" a flower, and since broken  color irises have only been around for about 25 years, the hybridizing is still in its infancy. Improvements in bud count, branching, and form continue to be perfected.  I was impressed with his irrigation system, and the neat, well organized way his garden is laid out--especially the identifying markers on every plant.
Brad's first introduction was award-winning "TIGER HONEY", (TB 38" EM AM 1994). Since then, he has introduced roughly 100 irises--many, award winners. The names of his irises are as unique as they are. Most are whimsical names based on African or wildlife themes.

After viewing rows and rows of blooms, some of my favorite Kasperek irises that were in bloom include:
Bi-color plicata "LLAMA MAMA" TB  37"  EM  2005  HM.  Large and vigorous!
"OKAPI POPPY"  TB 37"  M  2004 AM  Vigorous and graceful.  
A favorite:  "DRUNK SKUNK" TB 32" EM  2012.  Stunning!
"MAGDALENA LOUISA" TB 36" M  2003  HM.  A clean, BC pink--beautiful!
2013 Introduction, "MINK PINK."  Simple and elegant. TB 35" M.   I Love the beards!
2008 Wister Medalist, "MILLENNIUM FALCON"  TB 38" M.  Stunning--A real knockout!
 "MEERKAT MANOR"  BB  25" M  2008  AM.  A personal favorite!
"KINKAJOU SHREW" TB 38" EM  2000  AM.  This large bloomer is an excellent grower.
"PEEKABOO ZEBU" TB 35" ML  2005 AM.  Ruffled, bright and cheery.
This seedling is sure to be a winner--I loved the new, exceptional color!
Exciting seedling!
 "GNU BLUES"  TB 36" M 1994 AM.  Lovely!
"BEWILDERBEAST" TB 30" EM  1995 HM. A favorite--goes with many color combinations. 
"GRIZZLY GOSLING" TB  36" M 2006--Exceptional color and form on this ruffled BC iris.
"IWAN'A IGUANA" TB  36"  M  2004 HM--Lights up the garden--a favorite of garden visitors.
"SPICED TIGER" TB  31" EM  1996  AM.  Dramatic!
"KILIMANJARO SUNRISE" TB  37" M HM  The first BC yellow/violet bicolor.
"QUAIL ALE" TB  37" EM  1996 HM.  Understated elegance on this light yellow beauty.
This radiant charmer stood out in the garden
"FLAMINGO GRINGO" TB  30" EM 2008.  Exciting in the garden!
"OCTOPI PI" TB  36"  ML  2012.  This plicata has  clean, bright orange standards.
A favorite--2013 introduction, "YETI AGAIN" TB 36" ML.  A sure winner!
"CHOCOLATE MOOSE" TB  37"  M  2003 HM.  Dramatic--a lovely clump.
"HOT DOGS AND MUSTARD" (Kathie Kasperek) TB  36"  M 1995  AM.  Kathie's creation works great in designs.
"BRADLEY BADGER" TB 34"  M  2013.  A favorite--Lights up the whole garden!

Brad's introductions have received many awards from the AIS judges, and last year he received The Founders of SIGNA Medal for "Z Z ZANZIBAR" and both "MEERKAT MANOR" (BB) and "PLUM DUCK" (Spec x) received Awards of Merit. Also, "ORANGUTAN ORANGE" (TB) picked up an Honorable Mention. This year's introductions are exceptional as you can see by the pictures of 3 of my favorites:  "BRADLEY BADGER," YETI AGAIN," and "MINK PINK".

Whether you're a lover of broken color irises like me or not, you'll have to agree that the Kasperek  irises must be recognized as something relatively new and different in the iris world. I am grateful to Brad Kasperek for his passion, and for the countless hours and patience involved in hybridizing these unique flowers. I find them beautiful, and have a long wish list after visiting his iris garden. Whether in a clump or a single stem, they are very striking, making exciting attention-getters in the garden. I see many possibilities for companion plants and other irises that compliment their wonderful patterns and colors.

What do you like most about Broken Color irises?  Which is your favorite?

NOTE: Look for part II of my visit to Zebra Iris Gardens, where I talk about Brad's hybridizing priority shift to spuria irises, and pictures of some award-winning spurias, as well as some of Brad's stunning seedlings!








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Louisiana Irises -- Who could possibly have one favorite?

June 24, 2013, 6:00 am
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By Ron Killingsworth

A clump of mixed Louisiana irises
We grow a lot of Louisiana irises -- about 80,000 plants in all, and over 500 varieties.  Iris lovers often ask me to name my favorite Louisiana iris, at which point I begin rattling off the names of 15 to 20 varieties.  I really do not have an all time "favorite" but I will share some of those that are in my current "top 30" list.  

'Adell Tingle' (Hutchins, B 2006)
This iris was named for my mother's sister, my Aunt Adell, and is one of my favorite irises because of the name and because it is such a pretty lavender iris, with veining and ruffling.

'Amber Goddess' (Arny, C 1963)
Charles Arny produced a lot of Louisiana irises in the 50's and 60's.  This iris is registered as "amber" but can look quite red at times.  The darker style arms really set the flower apart from others.

'Atchafalaya' (Campbell, F 1998)
 The Atchafalaya Basin in south Louisiana is well know for the bald cypress trees and "swamps" located within the basin.  The iris is a beautiful open form dark red violet with a halo.  This large clump shows that it is a great garden iris.

'Bayou Tiger' (Strawn, K 1993)
This iris is a great Louisiana iris.  It has distinctive colors and has a great Louisiana name!  The "tiger" part of the name comes from the Louisiana State University (LSU) colors displayed by the flowers.  Every Tiger fan should grow this iris.



'Brazos Gold' (Strawn, K 1993)
A beautiful bright yellow with orange signals.  It is a great addition to any garden.


'Bryce Leigh' (Chowning, F 1973)
Is it starting to show that I really like a lot of the older cultivars?  This iris has flowers in the open form and is registered as "pale lavender" but looks more pink to me after it fades a little.  The maroon surrounding the signal and showing on the style arms will help anyone identify this iris from a long distance.


'Flash Harry' (Davis, Penny 2008)
This iris out of Australia by Penny Davis is a beautiful wine "blush" or red sort of overlaid with orange, with ruffling and lots of other beautiful things happening in the blooms.  It is in my top ten!


'Frank Chowning' (Rowlan, Henry 1984)
Of course this iris was named for Frank Chowning who gave us many wonderful Louisiana irises.  This iris is registered as "currant red" and has a nice bright yellow steeple signal with overlapping form flowers.



'Fringed Gold' (Shepard, D.L. 1992)
This "brick red" iris has a lot going on in the bloom.  The spray pattern around the signal is a characteristic I like in several other irises.  The style arms are edged yellow and there is a nice halo around the petals.  A beauty to behold.



'Gulf Moon Glow'  (Faggard, A. 1994)
Nice bluish stands with yellow green falls, green style arms -- even claims to have a slight fragrance.  I love this iris and grow it in about 15 different locations!



'Plum Good'  (Nelson, I 2001)
This iris has been around under the garden name "Plum Good" and was only recently registered.  It is certainly "plum" colored and I think it is a very "good" iris -- you should be growing it!



'Point Aux Chenes' (Musacchia, J 2005)
I know, I know!  You can't pronounce the name of the iris nor the name of the hybridizer.  Well, welcome to Louisiana.  This iris is registered as "golden peach self" but looks more "orange" to me.  It has a distinctive signal and is a great garden iris.  You can learn to pronounce the name or just give it a garden name of your own!  By the way, Joe Musacchia lives SOUTH of New Orleans -- yes, south of New Orleans.



'Prix D'Elegance' (Pryor, Heather 1995)
I really love the iris and the name.  It is a great garden iris and grows like a weed here in NW Louisiana.  It is registered as "rose pink" with lemon style arms.  A great iris!



'Splitter Splatter' (Grieves, D. R. 2004)
Another iris out of Australia that caused quite a stir when it was first introduced in the USofA.  I had people calling me from Florida wanting to purchase it and I had never even heard of it!  Now we grow it and it is certainly a "novelty" iris that will add excitement to your garden.


'Starlite Starbrite' (Granger, M 1985) and 'Delta Star' (Granger, M 1966)
The white "cartwheel form" iris in the front is Starlite Starbrite and the darker blue one in the back is the "cartwheel form" Delta Star.  Marvin Granger produced quite a few of these "laid out flat" irises that have all falls and no stands.  Starlite Starbrite is a show winner and has won many blue ribbons.



'Tantra' (Dunn, Mary 1998)
Mary Dunn lived in CA and hybridized many award winning irises.  This light orchid colored iris has lighter stands and that wonderful darker veining from the signal down to the edge of the petals.



'Texas Toast' Mertzweiller, J 2005)
Texas Toast is one of the most unusual tetraploids (having four times the haploid number of  chromosomes in the cell nucleus- most Louisianas are diploid) of the few registered.  It does in fact look like a nice lightly toasted bread.  Joe Mertzweiller did a lot of work on converting diploids to tetraploids and this seedling was still around when he passed away.  Marie Caillet registered it for him in 2005, long after his death.


'Wood Violet' (Dormon, Ruth 0 1943)
Most growers of Louisiana irises are familiar with Caroline Dormon but not all know that her sister Ruth also grew and hybridized Louisiana irises.  This is a very late bloom with a white spray pattern around the signals.  An oldie but a goodie!



'Cotton Plantation' (Dunn, Mary 1994)
When you see a clump of this iris in full bloom you will indeed think you have wandered into a cotton field in Louisiana or Texas.  The beautiful white blooms sure do look like cotton bolls.


'Heavenly Glow' (Morgan, Richard 1988)
This iris is a beauty.  It grows well and has very green style arms.  The signal is surrounded by an orange red coloring.  It is indeed "heavenly"!



'Professor Neil' (Mertzweiller, Joe 1990) and 'Her Highness' (Levingston 1957)
Professor Neil is one of the tetraploids hybridized by Professor Mertzweiller in the 50's and 60's.  It is a great garden iris and my favorite of the "professors" (a group of tetraploid Louisiana irises named by Mertzweiller for his professor friends at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette).  In the background is "Her Highness", a collected iris.giganticaerulea alba that is in my top ten!

'Just Helene' (Mertzweiller, J 1990)
This iris is an eye catcher!  The veining, the blue and yellow stands, the yellowish "ground" veined light blue falls, the green yellow signal!  Wow, beautiful and a great garden iris.



'Lone Star' (Campbell, Farron 1997)
Farron Campbell once owned Lone Star Nursery in the great state of Texas.  He hybridized this iris that has i.hexagona in its parentage.  It is a very late bloomer and has a cartwheel form, laid out like a plate!  Very pretty.



'Longue Vue' (Haymon, Dorman - 1999)
This beautiful white iris with "laced" edgings was named for Longue Vue House and Gardens in New Orleans, LA, where you can find many Louisiana irises growing along with thousands of other plants.  My favorite white and among my all time top ten.



'Navajo Coral' (Shepard, D. L. 1996)
A "sandy coral" iris with yellow gold signals and greenish style arms.  Very distinctive and a great garden iris.  A treasure from the great state of AZ.


So, as you can see, I really like some of the older Louisiana irises, irises that are considered "historic" because of their age.  We still grow hundreds of irises registered in the period 1920 to 1960.  I like the older open forms and the smaller blooms -- yet I also like the more modern fancy ones.  I just love too many of them to chose one favorite.

Do you have trouble winnowing down your list to one favorite?  Tell us which ones you like and why in the comments section.

If you are interested in growing some of the beauties, contact the Society for Louisiana Irises for more information. You can also learn a lot more about irises by visiting the American Iris Society web site.





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SPURIA IRISES WITH BRAD KASPEREK-- MY VISIT TO ZEBRA IRIS GARDENS PART II

June 26, 2013, 12:00 am
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By: Susanne Holland Spicker


Last week I visited ZEBRA IRIS GARDENS. The spuria irises were in bloom, and it was a visual treat! I saw rows and rows of stately spuria clumps.  The warm sunlight brought out the beautiful veining on the exquisite iris falls and the garden was  a myriad of colors with the lush green foliage showcasing their loveliness; it was extraordinary--ethereal.

You might ask, "What exactly is a spuria iris?" 

 FACTS ABOUT SPURIA IRISES
  • Spurias are beardless iris with elegant blooms
  • They will grow and flower with ease in most areas of the country, especially those where summer months are dry
  • They don't like to be disturbed, and can go 10-15 years without dividing
  • Their tall, bright green foliage and eye-catching blooms are not bothered by winds
  • They are great in floral arrangements, having a long vase life
  • Spurias love a well-balanced fertilizer, such as 14-14-14
  • Don't let spurias dry out before transplanting; some people use a wet paper towel to keep them hydrated until time for planting
  • They like full sunlight, or at least 1/2 day of sun
  • After established, they are quite drought tolerant
  • Plant in an area with good drainage

Brad Kasperek's interest in hybridizing spuria irises began in 2005.   He had often lost much of his bearded seedling bloom to hard April freezes, and had been thinking of switching his hybridizing priority to spuria irises. The president of the Spuria Iris Society cornered him one day and helped convince him it was something he should do.  Well, he was right!  Brad says he wishes he had started a decade earlier. 

Brad says that "most seasoned iris hybridizers develop an 'intuition' about which two parents to select when pursuing new flower coloration," but that he is too new at spurias to have that ability yet.  He said that his "first couple years of seedlings were a great disappointment since their flowers were just like what had already been introduced."  After that experience, he said that he chose his "spuria parents more carefully, and this year's seedling bloom from 2008 and 2009 crosses is providing some 'gnu' flower colors and rounder form."
Hybridizer Brad Kasperek, Zebra Iris Gardens, with one of his stunning seedlings, pictured below.

The evening I arrived at ZEBRA IRIS GARDENS I was in luck--Brad was in the process of hybridizing.  Brad says he has found the best time for this is between the hours of 7 and 9 pm, when the flowers are more fertile.  Watching the painstaking procedure of pollinating, tagging, and recording the data was fascinating.  It will be one or two years before Brad sees the fruits of his labors. He says "his current hybridizing goals include a line of non-yellow solid colors and transferring some of Charles Jenkins' and Barry Blyth's color breaks, new colors or patterns, to better plants." He says that he believes that "the best plants are from Dave Niswonger with some from Jenkins and Floyd Wickencamp as well."

 A bed of newly transplanted spuria iris among the established clumps of blooming flowers.


Brad believes that spuria hybridizers and the AIS should "focus more on advancements in spuria flower color and form at this time, rather than on the 'perfect plant.' "  He said that "Melba Hamblin, a very successful Utah hybridizer, always taught 'first you get the flower, and then you get the plant.' "  Brad says "both goals often take decades to reach, but almost every commercial hybridizer knows that color and form, not plant, is what sells."   So, his advice for both the Spuria Iris Society and AIS judging would be "a greater emphasis on colors and form at this time, in the hopes of expanding the garden appeal of 
l. spuria." 


This year, Brad has two exceptional spuria introductions and one was in bloom when I visited. "WAPITI CITI" (SPU 42" EM Kasperek '13), is lightly ruffled, with rich, medium red-purple standards, style arms and fall rims.  Matching inverted eyelash veining on a bright yellow signal completes this introduction.  It also has 6-8 buds.  Regal!

An introduction last year, "IBEX IBIS" (Kerr/Kasperek 2012) is a well-proportioned clump.  It has 6 budded stalks with a mass of flowers with medium lavender standards and a matching band around sunshine yellow falls.

Outstanding seedlings include the following:








ZEBRA IRIS GARDENS also has an impressive selection of award-winning spuria irises from other hybridizers. Some of my favorites in bloom that day are pictured here:
"SPARKLING CIDER" Cadd 2002--WOW!
"BLUE SPIDERWEB" Ferguson 1966
"LEMON TOWER" Walker 2008
"BOLDLY ELEGANT" Cadd 2003--striking!
"ADRIATIC BLUE" Niswonger 1996--superb!
"ADOBE SUNSET" McCown 1979
"IMPERIAL BRONZE" McCown 1970
"WILD AT HEART" Blyth 1999
"SULTANS SASH" Niswonger 1990--elegant
"CINNAMON MOON"  Blyth 2003--a real dazzler
"NORTHERN MUSE" Walker/Aberego 1985
"STEELY EYES" Walker 2006
"LOOK LIVELY"
"KAIBAB TRAIL" Wickenkamp 1985
"PEAK ALONE" Evans 1997 (Australia)
"STELLA IRENE" Jenkins 1995--Dramatic!
"CANDLE LACE"  Jenkins 1990--Ruffled falls
"RESPONSE"  Corlew 1989
"FIREMIST" Niswonger 1991--Gorgeous!
"NOBLE ROMAN" Blyth 1994
"VIOLET FUSION" Walker 2006
"DANDELION SMILE" Cadd 2005
"MISSOURI BOON" Niswonger/Wilhoits 2007


I eagerly look forward to additional introductions from Brad. I predict a resurgence of these remarkable flowers in the iris world--the possibilities are exciting!  I appreciate Brad's hospitality and thank him for welcoming me to his stunning iris garden.

To read more on spuria irises, or to join the Spuria Iris Society, (SIS) a section of the AIS, see them on their facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/spuriairissociety or  you can find them at www.spuriairis.com.


I'm planning on adding some spuria irises to my landscape this year, how about you?

On a personal note: I didn't have the pleasure of meeting Kathie, who is an integral part of ZEBRA IRIS GARDENS.  She recently had surgery for breast cancer, which will have to be aggressively treated. She will be having a mastectomy, with associated lymph node removal, followed by probable chemotherapy and radiation.  I, along with so many others, wish Brad and Kathie all the best these next months as they deal with this new challenge, while keeping up with the rigors of their commercial iris business. 



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Photo Contest Deadline Today!

June 30, 2013, 11:01 am
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Today, June 30, is the deadline to send in your beautiful photos of irises to the American Iris Society's Photo Contest.  


2013 Winner:  "Oldie But Goodie" Delane Langton



Irises in photos should be of the genus Iris. Entries will be selected and judged in six (6) categories:

1. Irises in a landscaped garden.
2. Irises in a field or home garden.
3. Events, tours, a person or people (at iris location).
4. Close up of an iris or irises.
5. Iris photos- art effects, macro of bloom segments.
6. Photos of pets, wildlife or garden art with the irises.

It is easy and takes very little time to enter.

  • Just fill out this Entry Form.
  • Email the form and a maximum of five photos (at least 1600x1000  high resolution jpeg) with the category indicated to AISPhotoContest@irises.org.


Share your love of irises with others- enter now!


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Breeding Reblooming Irises: An Eye to the Future-1

July 1, 2013, 6:33 am
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by Betty Wilkerson
Zone 6, KY
Crosses in 2013

My labor of love is to create unique reblooming irises for cold climates, but nothing is reblooming in my garden right now, so I thought I'd take you into the reblooming fantasy garden of my mind.  How can I do that?  By showing you irises I have hybridized that have reblooming genes that I intend to cross again to get reblooming irises in a wider variety of colors.  

A few years ago, Australian hybridizer Barry Blyth recommended that hybridizers take pictures of the parent flowers as they make crosses.  Such a brilliant idea that I should have thought of it myself! (insert smiley face)  So now I carry a digital camera in my hybridizing bag, along with notebook, pen and hybridizing tags. The trick is to remember to take the pictures when I make the cross!  So the photos below are my field pictures, part of the documentation of the painstaking and lenghty hybridizing process of producing better flowers for your garden.

People say they are tired of the "default" rebloom colors of yellow, white, and purple.  These are basically the result of dominant genes.  Other colors and some patterns require the use of recessive genes.  Over the past ten years, I've worked to fold in patterns and colors that did not exist in older cold climate rebloomers.  Recessive genes are required for the tangerine factor.  This is how we get pink, orange, yellow with a red beard or white with a red beard.  Certain patterns, like the Emma Cook pattern, are recessive.  Plicata is even recessive to selfs or single colored irises.  For the past ten years I've been working hard to fold these recessives into my seedlings.

This year, I'm crossing back for rebloom.  It's going to be difficult since the summer rebloom genes appear to be among the most rare!  I've crossed my reblooming irises and seedlings (irises that have not been registered or introduced) onto each other, and to a few seedlings with half rebloom genes that refuse to rebloom for me, in an attempt to achieve this goal.  


One such cross is, well, YELLOW.   Although I'm not crazy about all yellow irises, I'm fond of most of these 'Summer Radiance' children, due to their improved form and  their intense colors.  This 2013 cross will be used to get a nicely formed and vivid rebloomer.

                                                                       
1802-01P (Wilkerson Seedling) 

2151-01 Wilkerson Seedling


Once again, 'Summer Radiance' was outstanding, and its pollen was very fertile and it took on several things.  From the rebloom perspective, there is a lot of potential in these new seed pods!  

'Summer Radiance' clump (Wilkerson 1996)  


I have a number of seedlings I call "The Kitchen Sink Kids" because they have so many different genes in them that come from a reblooming iris numbered 1810.  ( 1605-01:9415-1Re((('Victoria Falls' x 'Vanity') x 'Immortality') x ('Latest Style' x 'Glistening Icicle'))) x ('Feedback' x 'Champagne Elegance') X 'Light Rebuff.' for those of you who must know.)   It seemed like a good idea to hit them with a bunch of rebloomers.  There were several good takes on 1810-15Re below,  the best rebloomer, and one take on 1810-01Re.  There were over twenty rebloomers, some summer and some fall,  from this cross.  Sadly, none met my requirements for introduction.  Here are two of the parents from 1810 I am using to get better form and color in rebloom.

1810-15Re (Wilkerson Seedling) 
                                                                  
1810-01Re (Wilkerson Seedling)  


Pollen from ‘Summer Radiance,’ aknown parent of rebloomers, took on 1810-01Re.   I have several more to share with you on my next post, so stay tuned!  



I'm finding 'Renown' to be a good parent for plant qualities, but unfortunately, none of its children have rebloomed.  Pollen from seedling #2310-02 ('Decadence' X 'Renown,') ‘About Tomorrow,’ and ‘Returning Chameleon’ took on 1810-15re, which is exciting, because 1810-15-re often blooms all summer and into fall.  'About Tomorrow' is from 'Treasured' x 'Renown' and gives beautiful and diverse children.  I just can't wait to see these babies.  

                                                                 
2310-02 (Wilkerson Seedling) 
                                                                   
'About Tomorrow' (Wilkerson 2013)
  
'About Tomorrow' Top View (Wilkerson 2013) 
                                                                       
'Returning Chameleon' (Wilkerson 1995) 


Even though it was a bad year for hybridizing,  I was able to get a dozen good reblooming crosses for the future.  For the next step, I stripped blooms from the large plantings of my strongest rebloomers, 'Returning Chameleon', 'Summer Radiance,' 'Echo Location,' 'All Revved Up'and 'Star Gate' and carried them from bed to bed looking for good mates.  More about these later!
I also used a number of seedlings that are rebloomers, but haven’t met my criteria for introduction.   But hope springs eternal in the world of reblooming iris creation.  Wish me luck! 

Do you have any questions about how your lovely rebloomers are created?  Leave your questions and comments below and I will do my best to answer.


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Horticultural Vermiculite: For iris gardens from clay to sandy soil

July 8, 2013, 3:00 am
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It's almost time to dig and divide your irises... so now is the perfect time to take a look at soil amendments for better plant health. One of my favorite amendments is horticultural vermiculite. My southern bearded iris garden would not be possible without it, but even my moisture-loving Louisiana irises are happiest when this beneficial amendment is included in the soil blend. No matter what your climate or soil type, the addition of horticultural vermiculite can have a positive effect in your garden. 


'Flying Down to Rio' (Moores 2005) planted in vermiculite-amended soil

Vermiculite is a naturally-occurring geological material, more specifically a group of aluminum-iron magnesium silicates that closely resemble mica. When processed for horticultural use, vermiculite is introduced to intense heat, causing it to expand into multiple layers of very thin plates. The end result is accordion-shaped granules of sterile, disease-free planting medium. Vermiculite has been used by nurserymen and gardeners for decades, in potting soils and outdoor mixes, in turfgrass and outdoor plantings, for 100% vermiculite growing applications, and for hydroponic growing. Horticultural vermiculite improves soil aeration, assists in temperature regulation, and retains moisture and nutrients necessary to feed rhizome roots for superior growth.


Close view of coarse-grade horticultural vermiculite

Consider the following reasons for using horticultural vermiculite in your iris garden:
  • Soils amended with horticultural vermiculite are better able to retain air, nutrients, and moisture, and release them to the plant as needed. Therefore, a planting medium mixed with vermiculite promotes faster root growth for quick anchorage of newly planted rhizomes.
  • Because vermiculite has cation exchange properties, it holds ammonium, potassium, calcium and magnesium and makes these trace minerals available to the roots as needed.
  • Horticultural vermiculite is a perfect growing culture for irises. The pH of vermiculite is neutral to slightly alkaline (7.0-8.0). It will not deteriorate quickly like most planting materials, and it will not turn moldy or promote rot.

SOIL AMENDING OR CONDITIONING
Coarse grade vermiculite is preferred for outdoor horticultural uses, though medium grade may also be used. With heavy soil, the addition of vermiculite creates much-needed air channels to greatly improve soil aeration. When soil is sandy, the addition of vermiculite helps the soil retain much-needed moisture. Soils may be amended up to a rate of two parts soil to one part vermiculite.

With a large garden area, you may choose to condition only the planting rows. If this procedure is continued for three to four digging cycles, the entire garden area will eventually be conditioned. Because horticultural vermiculite is inorganic, it will continue to function for many years.

Medium grade vermiculite is preferred for potting applications. When used in potting new rhizomes, vermiculite improves soil aeration and diminishes the risk of tender roots breaking as the irises are transferred to the garden. If starting with commercial potting soil, check the label before adding vermiculite, as it may already be present. If making your own potting mix, vermiculite may be added up to a ratio of one part compost material or soil to one part vermiculite.


Planting mix of two parts soil and one part horticultural vermiculite

SUMMER MULCH
If you live in an area that has little to no summer wind, you can use vermiculite to mulch around the rhizomes in the hottest summer months. Vermiculite acts as a constant reservoir of moisture without promoting rhizome rot, protecting your irises from dehydration and scorching during dry spells. This can be especially helpful immediately after digging time, when replanted rhizomes are settling in. After the intense heat passes and winds return, you can remove the vermiculite mulch and save it for use in potting or amending the following year. Or, you can mix it into the soil in other areas of your garden. Used as a mulch, vermiculite may be applied up to 3 inches thick.

FLORAL ARRANGEMENTS
After your irises begin blooming, you will want to bring some of those lovely blooms inside to enjoy. Fill a vase with vermiculite, saturate with tap water, and allow the vase to sit for a few minutes. Repeat this process until the vermiculite is no longer absorbing and water is visible on top. Then, pour off the excess water. Arrange your flowers as you would normally. Your flowers will remain fresh for many days without refilling, and the stems won't develop that unattractive slime that normally occurs when a stem sits in water. When placing flowers in vermiculite, be sure to cut the stems at a slight angle to facilitate wicking.


Flowers being arranged in a vase filled with water-saturated horticultural vermiculite

HOLDING OR SHIPPING RHIZOMES
Vermiculite can also be used at digging time. After you have provided a bleach bath for your newly dug rhizomes, allow them to air dry in the sun. Be careful not to let them bake; the idea is to let the exterior dry without dehydrating the interior. After the rhizomes are fully dry, place them in a storage container and pour vermiculite around them. The vermiculite will prevent moisture fluctuation during the storage period and will provide protection against temperature changes. Though iris rhizomes should never be stored long-term like a bulb, use of vermiculite allows your rhizomes to stay fresh many days longer before replanting. An exact length of time cannot be predicted here, as the timing is dependent on the hydration level of the rhizome (internally) prior to placement in the vermiculite. Vermiculite can also be used when shipping rhizomes to friends.


Rhizomes being placed into a shipping box filled with horticultural vermiculite

A FEW WORDS ABOUT SAFETY
In the past, you may have heard about a link between vermiculite and trace amounts of asbestos. For almost seventy years, vermiculite was used safely and effectively for many purposes, including construction and industrial applications. Then, in 1990, asbestos particles were discovered in vermiculite originating from a mine in Libby, Montana. This mine was primarily used to produce vermiculite for industrial, not horticultural, applications, under the tradename Zonolite. The discovery brought worldwide production of vermiculite to a screeching halt as scientists and regulators worked to determine if any other mines were contaminated. Since that time, strict inspection and safety procedures have been put in place. Though a warning label may still appear on the bag due to past Libby-related incidents, vermiculite is not listed on the OSHA List of Hazardous and Toxic Substances. Gardeners can feel confident that the horticultural vermiculite found in stores today is non-toxic and safe for use in their garden. Just remember, it is wise to use caution when working with dusty garden amendments of any type, including use of a dust mask and watering the garden area prior to application. 

What amendments have been useful in your garden? Post your comments below!

Learn more about horticultural vermiculite with these resources:
Material Safety Data Sheet for Vermiculite, SunGro Horticulture, issued March 1, 2008. This publication details the chemical and physical properties of vermiculite, verifies that vermiculite is not considered a hazardous or  toxic substance by OSHA, and provides useful supplemental information.
Statement by The Vermiculite Association on the USA Government Studies of Vermiculite and the Potential Asbestos Exposure, May 2005.
EPA Sampling and Analysis of Consumer Garden Products That Contain Vermiculite, August 2000. This report details the results of the first large-scale study of consumer garden products that contained vermiculite. Since the publication of this report, significant advances have been made in the processing and inspection of horticultural vermiculite sold to consumers.
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Most Popular Irises of the Year: Fred Kerr's "Mango Queen"

July 15, 2013, 6:00 am
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By Renee Fraser


Each year iris hybridizers put up the photos of their new introductions on their web pages, and each year the denizens of iris chat groups excitedly spread the news about whose intros are up. It's surprising that these websites don't crash from the rush of traffic as we all stampede to see the new introductions.

I thought I would ask some of these hybridizers which new flower was their hottest seller. I'm always curious to see what everyone else likes, and this knowledge helps to open my eyes to flowers I may have overlooked for some reason. I originally planned to begin with 2012, but I changed my mind and decided to ask about 2013. What's hot NOW?

My first call was to Fred Kerr at Rainbow Acres. Mr. Kerr is justly famous for his lovely creations, the most famous of which may be "Queen's Circle," which rates as many people's favorite iris and has been featured in these pages before. Mr. Kerr has a large number of new beauties this year, but he says that the runaway best seller has been "Mango Queen," a huge, luscious, fruity apricot and mango orange ruffled beauty. When I asked why he thought it was in the lead, he said "my guess is that it's all about the color, pattern, and ruffling. It's probably going to sell out this year."

You can see why. I have already decided where it will go in my garden, with the "Apricot Trifle" nasturtiums and the lamb's ears, with the foliage of the big blue agave behind it.

42", M-L  

I also have a particular fondness for Mr. Kerr's 2013 intro "Mary Contrary," a lovely new flattie, in which the standards lay down rather than arch up over the falls. Which of  Fred Kerr's 2013 introductions do you prefer?

I'll be back with more 2013 hot sellers from other hybridizers in future posts. Until then, happy web surfing!

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What Visitors Are Telling Some Gardeners

July 22, 2013, 6:00 am
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By Griff Crump

Several days ago, I asked iris hybridizers and iris lovers to "send me a photo of the flower or flowers that get the most attention in your garden, whether they are recent introductions or not."

So, do our visitors have good taste?  Apparently so.  Among the 37 registered and/or introduced attention getters are 4 Dykes winners, 4 Wisters, 11 Awards of Merit  and 10 Honorable Mentions.  29 of the 37 are award-winning irises.

Sixteen persons responded, including myself, and named 40 different cultivars, the only one to be named twice being 'City Lights'.  These include four seedlings, three not yet registered.

That wasn't all that caught my attention, however.  Among other things, I found the time periods of introduction of those 37 varieties to be interesting:

1964:                 1

1968:                 1

1970-1979        3

1980-1989        3

1990-1999        16

2000-2009        10

2010-2012        3

The paucity of favorites in the 2010-2012 2-year period is explainable by the brevity of time involved, but I wonder whether the preponderance of the 1990-1999 time period picks over the 2000-2009 picks is meaningful.  It shows a larger number of irises introduced between 12 and 23 years ago to be popular than of those introduced between 4 and 13 years ago.  Three of the four Dykes winners fell in the 1990-1999 period;  the fourth winner was in 1968.  If I'm correct (and I might not be --  someone can check) in supposing that more irises were introduced in the 2000-2009 period than in the previous decade, that would make the difference seem more significant.

It also interests me that no Dykes winners since Silverado in 1994 showed up among these named visitors' favorites.

Will Warner commented, "I didn't have many visitors. But the few I had went right for Louisa's Song, Solar Fire, Decadence, and my Wintry Sky x Mesmerizer seedling. I have noticed after they look at them a while they seem to get somewhat overwhelmed and start to say they like them all or go to their favorite color preference. I start pointing out 'look this one has 12 buds or look at this branching'! But that seems more to the hybridizer's preference, as they just nod and say that's nice, and then point at something else and go oooh look at that one! I have noticed most visitors here don't care much for the dwarfs. They seem to want them big and tall."

Will's observation was followed by Eileen Secrest's:  "People are drawn to orange ones, I think because they stand out, like Pumpkin Cheesecake . . . and I think they do exclaim when they see unusual ones like Gypsy Lord, or Decadence, but they don't run across the yard to see those, like they will with the orange ones. Most of the people who come to my garden mostly are surprised at the variety of colors and patterns available. I agree with Will, they do get overwhelmed and sometimes don't appreciate when I point out things like incredible beards or horns. Drives me crazy! :)"

That brings up the fact that there is only space-ager among the named introduced favorites  --  Rick Tasco's Solar Fire.  Although irisarians like some of the space-agers in my garden, non-irisarian visitors show little interest in them.  (One might think that some things like Will Warner's spectacular seedling, shown below, might change that in the future.)  And, like Eileen observed, my non-irisarian visitors walk right past some recent Dykes winners (which I won't name  --  they don't need any bad press) on their way to 20-year-old flowers that they want to buy.

I noticed something else that I think is remarkable.  That is the number of instances in which the hybridizer dipped pretty far back in time (since introduction) to choose the parents of what have turned up as favorites in this survey. Although it may clutter up the text to some degree, I took pains to show the introduction dates of the parents of most of the favorite irises shown here in order to highlight this fact. 

One such introduction is Crooked Little Smile, Bob Van Liere's 2008 introduction, for which he reached back to 1982 for one of the parents and to 1992 for the other.  The proof is in the pudding.  Snow Tree, a 1990 introduction by Robert Sobek, has parents from 1972 and 1979.  Linda Mann paired a now 27-year-old iris, Dusky Challenger, with a 1997 introduction to produce her seedling, Dusky Grape.  Maryott's 1994 introduction, Cajun Spices, has parentage from the 1970s.  Don Spoon's 2010 introduction, Red Hot Mamma, is the offspring of Rogue (1994) and Dynamite (1997).  Don also matched his recent (2006) Orchid Dove with a 16-year-older flower, Spring Splendor (1991) to produce Showy Lowy (2011).  Niswonger in 1993 introduced Tennessee Vol, resulting from a cross of  Countdown (1971) x Marmalade Skies (1978).  Finally, Jack Worel in 1999 introduced Rush Creek, from Gentle Dragon (1987) X Rustler (1987).

 I don't know how long some of these hybridizers' plants may have sat in their gardens as seedlings before being introduced, but the result is that flowers have been brought into the iris world that people like.

I think one thing that non-irisarian garden visitors are telling us is that "there's gold in them thar hills" of 20-or-so years ago, if we know how to mine it.

So, with that introduction, here are our responders' selections:

Naomi DiVincenzo was first to respond, saying that Crooked Little Smile (Stairway to Heaven [1992] x Satan’s Mistress [1982]) is always the favorite when she takes irises to her workplace.

 Crooked Little Smile  --  Van Liere, 2008



Lucy Burton's visitors like standard dwarf Snow Tree (Soft Air [1972] X 79S5: (Flapjack [1977] x Baby Toes [1979]) .

 Snow Tree  --  Robert Sobek, 1990

Linda Mann's standout is her registered seedling Dusky Grape.  The cross is Dusky Challenger [1986] X Grape Ice [1997].

Dusky Grape  --  Linda Mann, R. 2008


"Everyone went to it first", says Steve Kelly of Shannon Hiatt's seedling blooming in Steve's garden this spring.  The cross is Chocolate Ecstasy [2001] X Golden Panther [2000].

Shannon Hiatt seedling

In Valerie Walker's garden, the attention getters are City Lights (Fancy Face [1985] X Windsurfer [1982] ), Strange Brew [various Schreiner seedlings, 1999], Night Ruler [several undated Schreiner seedlings] and Cajun Spices [several Ghio seedlings from late 1970s].

City Lights -- Mary Dunn, 1990


Strange Brew  --  Schreiner's, 2002


Night Ruler --  Schreiner's, 1990


Cajun Spices  --  Maryott, 1994

Responding as a visitor to a local garden herself, Cathy Dudley was drawn to Silverado (Starina x Navy Strut) X Carriage Trade, [1972, 1972 and 1975, respectively] and Crown Sterling (Henry Shaw x Kingdom) x Good Hope sib) X Honesty, [all prior to 1970].

Silverado --  Schreiner's, 1986


Crown Sterling  --   Moldovan, 1974

Colleen Modra reports that Jesse's Song (Charmed Circle x Kiss) X Iris Nelson 34-74A: (Smoke Rings x Decolletage) [all before 1972] is always among the most popular at her garden.

Jesse's Song  --  Bryce Williamson, 1979

For Ruth Roberts' visitors, Stepping Out (parentage unknown) is always a popular one, along with Swingtown (Sultry Mood X V 489-2: (1981 #26, unknown, x K400-1: (Cranberry Ice x H 301-B: ((Dream Time sib x Mulberry Wine) x (Skywatch x (Amethyst Flame x Silvertone))))) [all between 1957 and 1973], World Premier (Yaquina Blue [1992] X 1985 #25, unknown), and Dusky Challenger (parentage unknown) [1983 seedling] this year.


Stepping Out  --  Schreiner's, 1964


Swingtown  --  Schreiner's, 1996


World Premier  --  Schreiner's, 1998



Dusky Challenger  --  Schreiner's, 1986

City Lights also shone in Cheryll Pierce's garden, as well as Rosalie Figge (Titan's Glory [1981] X Violet Miracle [1979]), Daughter of Stars (Clarence [1990] X Mind Reader [1992]), Clarence (parentage unknown [1991]) and Buckwheat (Spirit of Memphis [1976] X Soap Opera [1981]).


Rosalie Figge  --  Jane McKnew, 1991
Daughter of Stars  --  Donald Spoon, 2000
Clarence  --  Zurbrigg, 1990
Buckwheat  --  Byers, 1988



Will Warner's visitors focus on Louisa's Song (Cloud Berry [1996] X About Town [1996]), Solar Fire (Thornbird [1988] X Golden Panther [2000]), Decadence (Temple of Time [2001] X Louisa's Song [1999]), his own seedling from Wintry Sky [2002] X Mesmerizer [1990], and Peekaboo Zebu (Anaconda Love [1998] X Screen Play [1995]).

Louisa's Song  --  Blyth, 1999

Warner seedling

 Solar Fire  --  Tasco, 2002

Decadence  --  Blyth, 2001

Peekaboo Zebu  --  Kasperek, 2005


Ginny Spoon reports that visitors to Winterberry Gardens especially liked Red Hot Mamma (Rogue [1994] X Dynamite [1997]), Showy Lowy (Spring Splendor [1991] X Orchid Dove [2006]) , Zippo  (SDB, parentage unknown [2004], Black Cat (  ), Double Ringer (Whispering Spirits [2001] X Amarillo Frills[2002]), Fancy Gal (Dandy Candy [2001] X Favorite Pastime [2000]), and Brilliant Idea (
Gypsy Lord [2005] X 02-185D: (Restless Heart [2005] x Queen’s Circle [1999])).

Red Hot Mamma  -- Donald Spoon, 2010

Showy Lowy  --  Donald Spoon, 2011

Zippo --  Ginny Spoon, 2011

Double Ringer  --  Richard Ernst, 2007

Fancy Gal  --  Ernst, 2007

Brilliant Idea  --  Keppel, 2009



 Eileen Secrest's visitors like Pumpkin Cheesecake (Apricot Frosty [1992] X sib to 26-85: (Ambrosia Delight [1982] x 16-80: (Coral Beauty [1981] x pink amoena Marmalade Skies [1978]sib))), and oranges in general.

Pumpkin Cheesecake  --  Niswonger, 1995



In Nicolette Mealey's garden, the attention-getters are Rustler (Laredo [1983] X Dazzling Gold [1977]) and Tiger Honey (Desert Realm [1985] X Maria Tormena [1986].

Rustler  --  Keppel, 1987

Tiger Honey  --  Kasperek, 1993


Lori Lanford says that most visitors to her garden seem to prefer pinks, such as Magical Encounter (extensive pedigree involving Renaissance Faire [1985] and Dreamsicle [1995]. Many also liked Eastertime, Tennessee Vol (Countdown [1971] x Marmalade Skies [1978]), Carolina Gold, Old Black Magic (Midnight Dancer [1991] X Back in Black [1986]), and various purples. Many said they liked the purples because it reminded them of their mother's or grandmother's irises, but with an updated form.
Magical Encounter  --  Schreiner's, 1999

Tennessee Vol  --  Niswonger, 1993

Carolina Gold  --  Powell, 1970

Old Black Magic  --  Schreiner's, 1996



Lucy Burton said that plicatas get her visitors' attention.  That's also true in my garden, where visitors like the whirligig cant of Tale Spinner (Tanzanian Tangerine [1994 ] X 01Z1[2001]: (Royal Carnival x 93R6 (unk yellow bi-tone x Stepping Out)).  Other standouts are Jack Worel's stunning Rush Creek (Gentle Dragon [1987] X Rustler [1987] and an older bold yellow seedling of mine, 952Z1, that I'm going to introduce just so I won't have to keep saying "sorry" to would-be buyers.

Tale Spinner  --  Crump, 2012
 
Rush Creek  --  Worel,  1999

Sdlg 952Z1  --  Crump



Thanks to all of you who sent me photos of your visitors' favorites, and thanks also to the contributors to our AIS TWiki, from which most of the rest of these photos have been cadged.   Which irises are visitors to your garden most drawn to?  Do you find that certain colors attract attention?



































                              
                                                                      







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Delayed Gratification – The Siberian-Species Convention in Michigan

July 26, 2013, 6:00 am
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By Bob Hollingworth

Well, it ended up just fine after all! It turned out that postponing the 2012 Siberian-Species Convention until this year was a good decision (and, since it was an unprecedented move, it took a little nerve to do it). The 128 people who registered enjoyed some very pleasant Michigan late spring weather and caught the irises at or near peak bloom. The arrangements went ahead quite smoothly and more than a few people said it was the best convention they had ever attended. So luck was on our side this time.  The guest irises were generally growing quite well and at John and Jean Kaufmann’s garden in particular there were many clumps of enormous size after four years in the ground. A sandy soil, generous fertilization and an irrigation system brought out their full genetic potential. I don’t recall ver seeing Siberians being grown better.. The other gardens on tour were at Jill and Jim Copeland's, the Ensata Garden  of Bob Bauer and John Coble, and ours.  The many fine clumps led to some real competition in the voting for favorites at the end of the convention, and some quite wonderful irises didn’t make the final list.

So let me share the final outcome and some photos with you. Listing the Favorite Siberians may seem self-serving since one of mine, the plicata-like tetraploid “Judy, Judy, Judy”, named for my wife, was voted overall favorite – but keep in mind that this was a home game for us and maybe having Judy, Judy, Judy‘s Tearoom serving English afternoon tea to the garden visitors could be seen as a less-than-subtle hint on how to vote.
Judy, Judy, Judy
Afternoon tea is now being served on the verandah
The next iris in the voting, Marky Smith’s “Star Lion”, is a perennial favorite and grew beautifully in several gardens. For someone who pays only passing attention to hybridizing Siberians, Marky has a remarkable record of success. Her deepest red-violet “Kilauea” also made the top ten list. Our “Swans in Flight”, a very large white diploid, and Sylvia Borglum’s “Sylvia’s Love” followed on. This iris is one that has attracted me ever since I first saw it as a guest at the Minnesota convention in 2009 – a good grower with a delicate light blue rim on the white falls that makes a perfect clump. Then came Dean Cole’s “My Girl Emily”, a striking tetraploid with a broad diffuse rim of red around a milky bluish background on the falls – colored rims seemed to get the votes this year.



Star Lion


My Girl Emily


Swans in Flight


Sylvia's Love

Other favorites in the voting included Marty Schafer and Jan Sack’s “Sandy River Belle”, a subtle blend of sandy yellow and pink that presented wonderful flower bouquets in several gardens. As I said, the competition was extreme – “Trip to Paris” (Schafer-Sacks, 2009) was just one of the many irises that didn’t get on the favorites list but by any measure must be judged to be quite outstanding.
  


Sandy River Belle

Trip to Paris

Favorite 10 Siberian or Species seen growing in the guest gardens





1
Judy, Judy, Judy
Siberian (tet.)
Bob Hollingworth, 2010
2
Star Lion
Siberian (dip.)
Marky Smith, 2006
3
Swans In Flight
Siberian (dip.)
Bob Hollingworth, 2006
3
Sylvia’s Love
Siberian (dip.)
Sylvia Borglum, 2006
5
My Girl Emily
Siberian (tet.)
Dean Cole, 2012
6
Encore Performance
Siberian (dip.)
Bob Hollingworth, 2010
7
Sushi
Pseudacorus
Jill Copeland, 2013
8
Sandy River Belle
Siberian (dip.)
Marty Schafer-Jan Sacks, 2011 
9
Neptune’s Gold
Siberian (tet.)
Bob Hollingworth, Reg. 2013
10
Emily Anne
Siberian (tet.)
Bob Hollingworth, 2002
10
Great Falls Wine
Siberian (tet.)
Dean Cole, 2008
10
Kilauea
Siberian (dip.)
Marky Smith, 2007
10
Lakeside Ghost
Laevigata
Chad Harris, 2012
                         
The attendees also voted for the best seedling among the guests. The winner was a bit of a surprise, particularly to Brian Wendell, a hybridizer relatively new to the Siberian world, who seemed to be walking on air when he went up to accept the award. His seedling 2-02 was a very vigorous grower in a classic form with pure light to mid-blue flowers. The runners up were Dana Borglum’s Seedling 22 (mid-blue with a large yellow patch on the falls) tied with Schafer-Sacks S04-22C-10 (yellow-brown  base with reddish eyelash veining on the falls). I hope all three will be introduced soon.
Wendell 02-2

Schafer-Sacks S04-22C-10

 D. Borglum Sdlg. 22
So, it all had to end, we wished our friends, old and new, goodbye, and we garden owners could decompress and bask a little in the glow of an event that went well. Probably it will not recur in Michigan again until the memories of the work and worry of running a convention have faded a bit, but now we can look forward to a new Siberian Convention added on to the AIS Meeting in Portland in 2015. May they be as fortunate there as we were.
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MUMFORD TALL BEARDED IRIS GARDEN - A LOVE AFFAIR

July 28, 2013, 11:54 pm
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By: Susanne Holland Spicker


Forefront:  "On Edge"
"A thing of beauty is a joy forever.
It's loveliness increases; It never fades.
    Keats        

Nestled at the foot of the majestic Twin Peak Mountains in Willard, Utah, Neal and Dawn Mumford have their own little heaven. Their beautiful, spacious "do-it-yourself" home is situated on a 5 1/2-acre lot.  Their orchard has about 300 apple trees of 8 varieties. They also have peach, plum, and sweet cherry trees. It is the perfect setting for their (at last count) 361 tall bearded irises. The irises are on 1/2 an acre in rows 75 feet long. Neal plants 2 fans back to back so they don't grow into each other, and then plants 2 more of the same variety 36" apart in the same fashion. This gives them a nice-sized clump in 2-3 years. 
"Conjuration," (also below) "Silverado," "Edith Wolford," "Dusky Challenger" 


I met the Mumford's through our common love of irises several years ago, and have enjoyed a special friendship since. (You meet the nicest people through irises)!

Forefront:  "Elisa Renee"
Neal and Dawn's love affair started with their first date to Jr. Prom in High school. They will celebrate their 45th wedding anniversary this November. Their love affair with irises started 43 years ago, with rhizome starts from Neal's mother in 1970. They have been actively collecting and trading since 1984. They have ordered exclusively from Schreiners and Cooley's, as well as traded with iris friends. Helen Larsen, a local woman known for her irises, was an influence and contributor to the Mumford iris garden. 
From top left:  "Piping Hot," "Autumn Leaves," 
from front "Crowd Pleaser," "Gigolo," "Barcelona," 
"Golden Panther," "Orangutan Orange," "Kilt Lilt"
Neal, a retired PhD in organic chemistry, and Dawn, an art major and master quilter, work as a team. Neal takes charge of the planting, fertilizing and dividing of the iris. Dawn takes care of the organization, ordering, mapping, and iris scrapbooks, which have a picture and detailed information on each iris. Her expertise in color is evident in the garden. Their bloom time is typically mid-to late May, and through the first week of June. She says they have only had three iris rebloom:

Rebloomers:  "Champagne Elegance," "Best Bet," "Clarence"
Forefront:  First year blooms of "Yaquina Blue," "Crowned Heads"
Dawn orders around 7-10 rhizomes a year. Because of the number of iris they have, they rotate the dividing and transplanting, dividing 7-9 rows a year. That way, every 3-4 years all the rows end up being transplanted. In the garden, there are rows that may be 1 year old, others are 2, 3, or sometimes 4 years old. They have found that division every 3-4 years is best for optimum iris blooms.They also have what they call their "share bed," which are rows of irises they can share with others as they come to view the iris, which ensures that those people can get the rhizomes of the irises they want.
Front left to right:  "Feature Attraction," "Aegean Wind." 
Picture shows 2nd, 1st and 3rd year iris plantings.
They share some of the things they've learned over the years of successful growing: When they divide their iris, they transplant the rhizomes with 1/4 cup of superphosphate.They flood irrigate every 8 days. Dawn says that they use a well-balanced fertilizer, used at 1/2 strength, 3 weeks before bloom, and then again 3 weeks before winter, in late fall. In their location it is best to divide and plant irises in August. Dawn says the reason for their large, healthy blooms is great location; the rocky soil provides superior drainage. The iris benefit from the nutrient-rich orchard soil as well. Neal uses a liquid pre emergent, Trifluralian 4EC, after September 13 in the fall, for grass and weed control. A spring application is also recommended. Additionally, they don't trim the foliage in summer or fall unless they are transplanting; they feel the irises do better.
Forefront:  "Sweet Musette"
"Shaft Of Gold"  
Stunning Clump of "Stairway to Heaven"
Dawn tells the story about the irises "Purple by the North Fence" and "Yellow with the Orange Beard." She said a friend who was getting older couldn't remember the names of the irises, and had named them that. After more than 25 years, they are still known by those names in the Mumford garden. Another story was the time Dawn was dividing the iris. She was trimming the fans and writing the names on them. The little girl next door ran home and told her mother that Dawn was "giving all her flowers a name."

"Yellow with the Orange Beard," and 
"Purple By The North Fence" noids

When they moved from their home in Brigham City 8 1/2 years ago to their present home, moving the irises was no easy task. They lost some, and many others' names were lost. It has been a real job researching, and correctly naming the iris. They have made real progress, and are close to identifying them all. The hardest winter Dawn remembers is the one of 1985, where the temperatures plunged to 65 degrees below zero.  They lost 23-25 irises that year because there wasn't a blanket of snow to insulate the plants, causing the demise of the iris. Dawn is interested in finding those irises that she's lost over the years and is hoping that someone reading this article can help her in acquiring them. (See her list at the bottom of this article). 
"Dawn Glory"  (Dawn likes the name of this one!)
(From front to back) "Angelique" "Pledge Allegiance,"
 "Gold Trimmings," "Lovely Kay"
They've done nearly all the work in their lovely "do-it-yourself"  home. It features arched alcoves for iris floral arrangements, special vases collected for the arrangements, a sandblasted etched glass in the china closet with images of irises, Noritake iris china, and a watercolor print from Cooley's-- all reminders of their love affair with irises. For years Dawn hosted a luncheon for as many as 58 women during iris season, with floral arrangements throughout their home, and, of course, a tour of their colorful garden.
Dawn with "Many Thanks," a Cooley's bonus plant. 
(It ranges anywhere from 48-60",) and favorites
"Magic Man, "Beverly Sills," "Geniality," and 
"Gold Trimmings"
More Favorites: "Schortman's Garnet Ruffles,"
"Designer Gown" (Dawn loves the gilt edge),
"Pledge Allegiance," Dawn with 60-inch 
"Many Thanks" in 2009, and "Silverado"
Among Dawn's favorites: "Night Ruler," "Electrabrite," 
"Into The Night," "Honky Tonk Blues" (which Dawn 
thinks should be named "Faded Denim"), and "Gitano"
A favorite blue of Dawns:  "Sea Power"
More favorites: "Salzburg Echo," "Company Red," "Aegean Wind," "Feature Attraction," and "Kitty Kay"

Neal's favorites:  "Change Of Pace," "Well Endowed," 
"My Ginny," "Dusky Challenger," "Rose Tattoo"
From l to r: "Victoria Falls," "Jessie's Song," "Sunday Chimes"
"Art Center," "Gigolo," "Barcelona," "Machismo,"   "Piping Hot,"  "Crimson Snow," "Mulled Wine"

I have many favorites in the garden. Here are a few 
of them:
"Pink Angel," and "Launching Pad"
My favorite red that day: "Dynamite"
"Rare Quality," an excellent blue and white plicata
The garden has stunning whites, "Skier's Delight" is one of many
I love the delicate colors of "Heather Cloud"
"Play With Fire," an outstanding red
"Tarlatin," a favorite pink with wonderful lace and ruffles! 
"Prom Night," a standout in the garden for me
Among Dawn's favorite purples: "Paul Black," 
"About Town," "Night Ruler," "Aristocracy," "Hollywood Nights"
"Elisa Renee," my all-time favorite pink in the Mumford iris garden
"Private Label" photographs so well.  I had some lovely 
cards printed up from this picture.
Front to back:  "Lovely Kay," "Gold Trimmings," "Pledge Allegiance"
Forefront:  "Queen In Calico"
"Theater" always lights up the garden

I've been traveling up to the Mumford's for 
several years now around Memorial Day to 
view the spectacular show the iris put on!  
It's been interesting to see the difference in 
the blooms from year to year because of 
inconsistencies in the weather. One thing 
that is always a constant, however, is the 
warm welcome and gracious treatment I 
receive from Neal and Dawn. Seeing their 
dedication to each other and to their irises 
has been an inspiration to me--it is a love
affair that has increased over the years.  
And, of course, the iris never disappoint! 


Dawn would love to replace the iris they have 
lost over the years.  If you know where the 
Mumford's can acquire any of their lost irises, 
please leave a comment.

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Lousiana Irises: The Best of the Reds Part 1

August 5, 2013, 6:00 am
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Louisiana Irises:  The Best of the Reds

by Ron Killingsworth

The search for a true red iris has been going on for many years.  There are a lot of irises out that include the word "red" as part of the name or of the description, but are they really red?

Various members of the Society for Louisiana Irises have written articles about the search for a true red iris.  Some were too technical for me to completely understand but I was able to learn enough to know that a true red iris is yet to be created.  There are many Louisiana irises that come very close to being red and there are others that appear to be various shades of red.  I thought I would share some of these "red" irises with you.

'Ann Chowning' by Frank Chowning 1976
'Ann Chowning' is registered as "currant red self" and is actually a little "redder" than represented by this picture.  It won the  Mary Swords DeBallion Medal (MSDM) in 1986.


'Bold Copy' by Henry Rowlan 1983
'Bold Copy' is registered as having "red" stands and falls.  It is probably a little more on the red side than this digital picture reflects.  It won a Honorable Mention (HM) in 1987.


'Captain Bill' by Sidney Conger 1956
'Captain Bill' is registered as having  "Corinthian red splashed and reticulated deeper" standards and "mauve rose veined darker falls".  It won a HM in 1961.


'Cherry Cup' by Richard Morgan 1988
'Cherry Cup' is registered as "full red" with wire rim on falls.  It is actually redder than shown in this picture.  It won a HM in '93 and an Award of Merit (AM) in '96.


'Choctaw Ridge' by Joe Musacchia 2004
'Choctaw Ridge' is registered as "stands cranberry red" and is indeed a very pretty shade of red.  There are many shades of red but where is the 'cherry red" we all wish to produce?  It won a HM in 2010.


'Chuck Begnaud' by Dorman Haymon 1999
'Chuck Begnaud' is registered as "rich lavender' and is probably more lavender than red but it is a beautiful iris with a while halo around the edges of the petals and has serrated edges.  A great garden iris!


'Coorabell' by R. Raabe 1988
'Coorabell' is registered as "imperial purple falls" and is much darker in color than reflected by this digital photograph.  It is one of the few tetraploid Louisiana irises and is a great garden iris with huge flowers.



'Creole Flame' by C. Wyatt 1973
'Creole Flame' is registered as "dark cardinal red" and I have seen pictures that reflect a darker red than this picture.  It certainly appears red in the garden.  It won a HM in 1975.



'Dot Marie' by E. Matheny III 2000
'Dot Marie' really darker than this picture and is registered as "velvety dark purple" but appears more reddish purple in the garden.  A beautiful iris that grows well for us.

'Empress Josephine' by Dorman Haymon 1989
'Empress Josephine' is registered as "ruffled velvety dark red violet" so although it may not be actually red, at least red is used as part of the description!  It is certainly a beautiful iris with large golden spearhead signals.  It also is a good bit darker and "redder" than shown in this picture.  Am I the only one who has trouble with color shifts in digital photography?

'Far and Away' by Mary Dunn 1991
'Far and Away' is one of many wonderful irises hybridized by Mary Dunn of CA.  This one is registered as "ruffled deep red purple".  Notice the great yellowish signals on all the petals.  It won a HM in '96.

'Frank Chowning' by Henry Rowlan 1984
'Frank Chowning'  is registered as "currant red" and again is darker red than reflected in this picture.  It won a HM in '89, a AM in '91, and the MSDM in '93 (highest award within Louisiana irises).

'Fringed Gold' by D. L. Shepard 1992
'Fringed Gold' is without a doubt one of my favorite Louisiana irises.  Although registered in 1992, it is right up there with modern hybrids when comparing recent developments with Louisiana irises.  It is registered as "brick red" and has a wonderful gold edging on all the petals, more pronounced on the falls.  A great garden iris and a sure show winner!


'Jean Bush' by Dorman Haymon 1994
'Jean Bush' is registered as red and has a yellow halo around the petals.  It is more of the open form than most recent hybrids.  It has great substance and is a good garden iris.

'Joie De Vivre' by Heather Pryor 1995
'Joie De Vivre' is registered as "ruffled deep rose" and won a HM in 2000.  Heather Pryor, of Australia, has hybridzed many beautiful irises and this is but one of her beauties.



I hope you have enjoyed viewing a few of the Louisiana irises that are (or almost) red.  Learn more about the many other colors of Louisiana irises at the Society for Louisiana Irises and learn more about the many different species of irises at The American Iris Society.  Stay tuned for Part Two of the best of the reds later in the week.  Now get out there and plant some irises!

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Louisiana Irises: The Best of the Reds Part 2

August 8, 2013, 6:00 am
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By Ron Killingsworth

On Monday, I we saw some of the best red Louisiana irises, and I promised you more.  Here are the rest of the best.


'Little Miss Sims' by Frank Chowning 1978
'Little Miss Sims' is registered as "raspberry purple" but looks red in most pictures.  It won a HM in '83.  It is a pretty iris with a nice name.


'Mayan Chief' by Marvin Granger 1965
'Mayan Chief' is registered as "brick red with a light brown overlay".  The huge signals on this iris really make it stand out in the garden.


'Melon Time' by R. Morgan 1983
'Melon Time' is registered as "full red" and is among the almost really reds in my opinion.


'Mighty Rich' by Charles Arny 1982
'Mighty Rich' can be seen in the garden from a hundred feet away.  The huge bright yellow signals really make it stand out.  It is registered as "velvety ruby red" and won a HM in '84.


'Mulberry Mousse' by Sidney Conger 1957
'Mulberry Mousse' is registered as "bright mulberry" and is one of my favorite "oldies but goodies".  A great garden iris and close to being red.


'My Friend Dick' by Richard Butler 1998
'My Friend Dick' is registered as "current red" and has beautiful signals.  It won a HM in '03, an AM in '05 and the MSDM in 2007.


'New Comer' by G. Holleyman 1960
'New Comer' is registered as "deep purplish-red self with green throat".  It certainly has a green throat and the bold signals catch your eye from long distances.  It won a HM in '69.




'Plum Good' by I. Nelson 2001
'Plum Good' was not registered until 2001 but was growing in many gardens for many years before finally being registered.  I love the name!  It is registered as "plum red".


'Professor Neil' by Joe Mertzweiller 1990
'Professor Neil' is one of several tetraploid Louisiana irises hybridized by Joe Mertzweiller and named for his professor friends.  It is registered as "dark red" and won a HM in '95, a AM in '97 and the MSDM in 1999.


'Red Velvet Elvis' by Kevin Vaughn 1996
'Red Velvet Elvis' is registered as "stands velvety dark red" and is really about as red as I have seen in any iris.  It won a HM in 2000, an AM in 2002 and the MSDM in 2005.


'Rhett' by Mary Dunn 1982
'Rhett' is registered as "mahogany red" and is another very pretty red.  To grow this one, you must have Mary Dunn's other introduction,  'Scarlett' (Dunn, M 1998) another nice red.  We would not want  to separate the famous "Gone with the Wind" couple!


'Rich Jewel' by R. Morgan 1994
'Rich Jewel' is registered as "dark violet' but looks more red to me.  It won a HM in '99 and an AM in '02.


'Rose Cartwheel' by Marvin Granger 1980
 'Rose Cartwheel' is one of Marvin's cartwheel forms and is one of my favorite irises.  Although not red, it is a very pretty "rose" color.  It won a HM in '83.




'Wild Cajun' by Henry Rowlan 1989
'Wild Cajun' is registered as "currant red" and has a great Louisiana name.  It won a HM in '93.




'Jazz Hot' by Heather Pryor 1994

'Jazz Hot' is registered as "red edged white" and is an eye catcher with the bright yellow steeple signals on all petals.  It won a HM in 2000 and a AM in 2004.  A beautiful iris and about as red as red can be in today's irises.

Although hybridizers are still working to find the perfect red iris, these all look great in the garden and look red to the eye.  Do you grow any red Louisiana irises? Which of these is your favorite? 
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Perks of the "job"

August 12, 2013, 4:00 am
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by Jim Murrain



One of the perks of working with the SIGNA (Species Iris Group of North America) Seed Exchange is meeting people from all over the world that have a keen interest in species Iris.

I sometimes get to see newly collected and named irises like these Chinese selections of Iris tigridia in novel colors. I expect they will become available sometime in the near future.



Also these Japanese seedlings of Iris rossii. 
The first being typical while the next shows a pale blue flower,




a near white flower,


and an attempt at a double flower. 
This only hints at the untapped potential of this species.



I am also privileged to see photos of very rare and beautiful 
Chinese Iris like I. qinghainica,  


Iris collettii,


and this unusual form of Iris barbatula.



There are also many surprises like this Iris that looks like I. tectorum.


Until you see the gigantic foliage. I. tectorum on steroids?



There are also mysterious irises that appear occasionally on a photo taken 
by a tourist not aware that the Iris was unknown to the rest of the world.


This beauty was captured on film in Northeast India. 
Alas, it was not collected and only exists in the wild.



My final entry today is also a mystery. It was sold by a Chinese nursery to an avid collector in Europe as another species. But, this is Iris new to science. The perplexed owner shared it with a friend who was not satisfied with the mystery and searched for a name to no avail. I hope it will soon be named and another Iris species will grace our gardens.


Fortunately it is self fertile and has set several pods this year. 
My fingers are crossed that we will all get to enjoy this new Iris very soon.

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Stricken by Irises

August 19, 2013, 6:00 am
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By Bryce Williamson

You grow to love some irises over time, but others strike you upon first viewing.  In my case, two of the times I was immediately stricken by the beauty of an iris were in Clara and Ruth Rees's gardens.


I gained my love of velvet-falled irises from seeing their huge clump of "Amigo", an exceptionally beautiful flower.
"Amigo" Courtesy of Mike Lowe from original HIPS website


Another time, I rounded the lattice-work that defined a "room" in their home garden, and found a lovely stalk of "Swan Ballet", showing off why it won the Dykes Medal.
"Swan Ballet" Photo by author


"Swan Ballet" is an important iris in other ways besides being merely beautiful: it won the Dykes Medal, its child "Pacific Panorama" won the Dykes for Neva Sexton, and a child of "Pacific Panorama." "Shipshape," won the Dykes for Stafford Babson.  (I only know of one other example of three generations of irises winning the Dykes:  "Pink Taffeta," "Vanity", and "Beverly Sills.")



"Pacific Panorama" photo by Roland Dejoux


"Shipshape" photo by Colleen Modra

Another iris that struck me the first time I saw it was "Helen McGregor" in the garden of Mrs. Hobbs in Orland, California. She grew mainly older varieties in long rows stretching out through her pecan grove. With a little luck we would also find some of Truman Capote's “windfall pecans” while viewing the flowers.
"Helen McGregor" Photo by Bluebird Haven Iris Garden
"Helen McGregor" impressed me as so very blue and I was later pleased to find that almost all of the very best current “true” blues go back to this variety.



"Anon" photo by Country Delight Iris
Jim Gibson's wonderful iris (and wonderful parent) "Anon" is stuck in my mind from the San Diego National Iris Convention where it was growing in Archie Owen's yard by a lemon tree. I knew that I had to have this distinctive variety instantly, and I grew it for many years. In one of the great mysteries of iris growing, "Anon" really liked the town of Campbell—it would bloom 10 inches taller here than for Bill Maryott who was just 5 miles away.

The last time I saw Jim Gibson was at a Porterville Regional Iris Tour, at the home of George and Margaret Sutton.  Sprung from his retirement at the rest home, he graced us with his presence and knowledge.  We had a good talk, but it was a little sad to hear him say "I only can make crosses in my mind anymore."  That was the last time I saw the kind man who produced so many lovely and famous flowers. For those of you who are unfamiliar with his work, he was very famous for producing glorious diversity in plicatas.


Are there any irises that struck you from the first time you saw them?  I hope you do- please feel free to tell us about them in the comments section.

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This will be my last scheduled post for the blog, but I will occasionally be back as a guest blogger.  I have a few final words about the world of irises.


First, I have enjoyed giving you the history of my local iris society on this blog. When I learned that my local society, The Clara B. Rees Iris Society, had only one picture of Clara, I grew a bit concerned about the loss of history in the world of irises.  This is partly my own fault—I could have and should have done a better job in my younger years taking pictures of people and gardens and preserving them for posterity.  So please, take photos and record the history you are in the process of making in the iris world.


Second, my life has been immeasurably enriched by visiting the iris gardens of others.  Sometimes, though, I worry that fewer people are visiting the gardens of other iris growers and gardeners. How can anyone expand a healthy and thriving iris collection if they don't see the newer varieties in real life? I encourage everyone to get out, meet the interesting people growing irises, and see what the flower looks like in their gardens. Furthermore, hybridizers used to send their seedlings around the country before introduction to test them in various climates. There has been a decline in that practice, which concerns me, since it is a healthy practice for the production of good garden irises.  I'd like to encourage hybridizers who have not tried this to begin, and to thank those who do.


Third, as gardening and agriculture have become more commercial, we are finding that new garden chemicals are not tested on irises; moreover, we don't seem to have many iris growers of a scientific bent who are willing to do that testing.  It's expensive, and of course, a whole post could be written about the horrible effect of the current US depression on iris gardens and plant nurseries in general.  Ten years ago who would have believed that a famous name such as Cooley's Gardens would be closed?  Consider sharing your experiences with these new chemicals and methods with others so that we can continue to enjoy irises for many years to come.

Napa County Iris Gardens, photo by the author

Finally, when I first started growing irises, irises were the favorite perennial in the country. That is not the case today, sadly. With so many fine qualities all of the iris species need to regain their rightful places as pre-eminent American perennials. Toward than end, I am proud to have served on this blog to help re-popularize this magnificent flower.



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"THAT'S ALL FOLKS," the 2013 DYKES MEDALIST

August 19, 2013, 11:00 pm
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By Susanne Holland Spicker


We are pleased to announce the winner of the 2013 Dykes Medal, "THAT'S ALL FOLKS," by hybridizer William Maryott. The giant, ruffled and laced iris, the last introduction by the popular hybridizer, was introduced by Joseph Ghio, 2005.  

A complete list of winners in other categories will be coming soon.

Here's a description of this exceptional iris via the iris WIKI:

2005 Maryott

'That's All Folks' (William Maryott by Joseph Ghio, R. 2004). Seedling DD-117G.  TB, height 40" (102 cm). Mid bloom season. Standards brilliant gold; falls white with gold blending to wide muted gold band; beards gold. Sibling to 'Pure and Simple.'  Bay View 2005.  Honorable Mention 2007; Award of Merit 2009; Wister Medal 2011; American Dykes Medal 2013.


Photo by Magic Valley Iris Society's Photos - 
"That's All Folks"
TB William Maryott by Joe Ghio, 2005,
taken at the Grahams by Jeanette Graham on 5-26-13.


Click here for a complete list of winners on the Iris Encyclopedia website.
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"Bundle Of Love" 2013 Knowlton Medal winner!

August 22, 2013, 6:00 am
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By Mike Unser

The winner of the 2013 Knowlton Medal for best Border Bearded iris is Paul Black's "Bundle Of Love".

'Bundle of Love" Paul Black  Photo credit:  Jan Lauritzen


As found in the Iris Encyclopedia, its official registration information is: 'Bundle Of Love' (registered and introduced 2007). BB, height 26" (66 cm), early to mid season bloom. Standards warm buff pink blending to pale cream-buff band; style arms pale peach; falls white around beard blending to ivory, darkening slightly toward margin, pale gold texture veins and narrow band; beards tangerine; ruffled; slight spicy fragrance. I147A: ('Procession' x B149C: ('Abridged Version' x 91135D)) X 'Dolce'. Mid-America 2007. Honorable Mention 2009; Award of Merit 2011.

The Knowlton Medal is named for Harold Knowlton of Auburndale, Massachusetts, who was a tireless promoter of the border bearded class of irises. For more information on median irises, including border bearded irises, please see the website of the Median Iris Society.

"Bundle of Love" clump  Photo credit Paul Black

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Wister Winners: Three Beauties Top the Tall Beardeds in 2013

August 23, 2013, 12:10 am
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by Evey Blalock

Please join us in congratulating the winners of the 2013 John C. Wister Memorial Medal: 'Absolute Treasure' (Tasco 2006), ‘Elizabethan Age’ (Baumunk 2005) and ‘Ink Patterns’ (T. Johnson 2007).

The John C. Wister Memorial Medal is the highest award given by The American Iris Society to irises in the tall bearded (TB) class. This medal was first awarded in 1993, recognizing one tall bearded iris annually. Beginning in 1998, the selection process was changed to recognize three tall bearded irises each year. On the AIS website, Clarence Mahan provides this information regarding the medal's namesake, John C. Wister (1887-1982): "John C. Wister led the organizing meeting that created the American Iris Society and became its first president, a position he held for fourteen years. He guided the society through its formative years. He was widely recognized as a man of rare management skill, leadership ability, and the highest ethical standards. R. S. Sturtevant wrote of him: 'Probably few current members realize that the AIS started through the efforts and initiative of one man, John C. Wister....' "  (Photo of award courtesy of Rick Tasco.)

Let’s take a closer look at this year’s winners!

‘Absolute Treasure’ is registered with the following descriptive information: 42" (107 cm), mid bloom season. Sky blue self, style arms slightly lighter toward back, falls slightly lighter centers; beards white, tipped golden yellow in middle and throat, frosty white at end; heavily ruffled; slight sweet fragrance. 'Sudden Impact' X 'Color Me Blue'. Superstition 2006. Honorable Mention 2008, Award of Merit 2010; Wister Medal 2013.

Rick Tasco, hybridizer and co-owner of Superstition Iris Gardens, shared the following comments about his lovely iris: “I'm very proud of ‘Absolute Treasure’ since it is the culmination of over a dozen years work, tracing itself all the way back to my very first introduction, ‘Ruffled Goddess’. One of its parents is ‘Sudden Impact’, which is a product of ‘Ruffled Goddess’, thus the lineage. When ‘Absolute Treasure’ was in our seedling patch, before introduction and before it was even named, several well-known AIS Judges, whom we respect very much, promised us great things for this sky blue iris.”

Rick Tasco surrounded by his aptly named 'Absolute Treasure'
(Both photos of 'Absolute Treasure' courtesy of Superstition Iris Gardens.)

‘Elizabethan Age’ is registered with the following descriptive information: 33" (84 cm), early to mid bloom season. S. apricot, washed with translucent purple infusion except at edges; style arms apricot with slight purple highlighting; F. white with apricot rim and hafts, heavily overlaid dark purple in luminata pattern, apricot and white veining showing through white area around beards; beards tangerine, more intense in throat. 678A: (Cheating Heart x PDFF-1: (Prize Drawing x Flights of Fancy)) X County of Kent. Iris Colorado 2005. Honorable Mention 2007, Award of Merit 2009.

Lowell Baumunk, hybridizer, is also a talented photographer. Below is a photographic work by Lowell that combines his iris and the inspiration for its name.
 

When asked to comment about this beautiful iris, Lowell responded with the following: "When ‘Elizabethan Age’ and its siblings first bloomed, in 2001, I was pleased with their look and their diversity as well as their strong growth habits. There was a range of luminatas (like 'Elizabethan Age'), lumi-plics, glaciatas and plicatas, all with pink or apricot in the ground color. I right away wondered whether 'Elizabethan Age' might have been my prettiest TB to date. The intensity and complexity of the colors and pattern somehow seemed to reflect the same aspects in the work of Shakespeare and the other Elizabethans. And one of its parents, ‘County of Kent’, also has an English-themed name."  

Lowell Baumunk now offers his iris introductions through Stout Gardens. You can see more of his photographs in his online gallery.

Award-winning photograph 'Self Portrait' by Lowell Baumunk

'Ink Patterns' is registered with the following descriptive information: 36" (91 cm), mid to late bloom season. S. and F. white, strong blue-violet stitched edge; style arms dark blue-violet, ruffled; beards white tipped violet blue; slight fragrance. 'American Classic' X 'Royal Estate'. Mid-America 2007. Honorable Mention 2009; Award of Merit 2011; Wister Medal 2013.

A stand of 'Ink Patterns' growing with 'Sharp Dressed Man' and closeup  .
(Photos courtesy of Thomas Johnson, Mid-America Garden)

Thomas Johnson, hybridizer, wrote this about his creation on the Iris Encyclopedia website: “Exuberantly ruffled white flowers have indelible inky blue stitched plicata bands around falls. Standards have wide washed and stitched plicata bands with dotting inside them and lines up midribs. Styles are wonderfully contrasted, inky, dark indigo. A clump of 'Ink Patterns' in the garden is unforgettable. It is sure to catch the judge's eye at shows.” You can see more of Thomas' creations, and perhaps meet one of his friendly and furry garden greeters, at Mid-America Garden.
 
A complete list of this year's AIS award winners can be found on the Iris Encyclopedia website.
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2013 Williamson-White Medal Winner "Peebee and Jay"

August 24, 2013, 6:00 am
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By Renee Fraser


Please join us in congratulating Barbara & David Schmieder on their Williamson-White Medal winning iris "Peebee and Jay."



"Peebee and Jay" Barbara and David Schmeider



This medal is restricted to miniature tall bearded (MTB) irises. It is named in honor of E. B. Williamson (1877-1933), his daughter Mary Williamson (1909-1987) and Alice White (1886-1969).  

On the AIS Awards page, Clarence Mahan tell us that "although others had introduced irises that fit into the miniature tall bearded iris class before
Williamson, he and his daughter were the first to breed them as cultivars in a distinctive class of irises."
"In the early 1950's, Alice White of Hemet, California began a crusade to gain recognition of the assets of these wonderful smaller irises. She organized table iris robins and wrote many articles for the AIS Bulletin and gardening magazines promoting their virtues. She encouraged iris hybridizers to breed these irises to obtain new and finer cultivars. She led the campaign to have a separate class established for table irises. When the class was finally approved, Alice White graciously accepted the name "miniature tall bearded" irises, although she always preferred to call them table irises."  

"Peebee and Jay" Photo credit Stout Gardens at Dancingtree

The description from the AIS Wiki says the following:
'Peebee And Jay' (Barbara & David Schmieder, R. 2005). Sdlg. 98-BP-1. MTB, 22" (56 cm), M. S. and style arms near moderate orange (RHS 166D); F. near strong purple (83C), thin rim similar to color of S., some white lines at haft; beards light yellow (10B). 'Bangles' X 'Pardner'. Hermit Medlars Walk 2006. HM 2009, AM 2011; Williamson-White Medal 2013.

For more information on Miniature Tall Bearded Irises, please visit the Median Iris Society Webpage.


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2013 Cook-Douglas Medal Winner "Wish Upon a Star"

August 25, 2013, 6:00 am
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By Renee Fraser


The AIS is proud to congratulate Paul Black on his Cook-Douglas Medal winning standard dwarf bearded iris, "Wish Upon a Star."




"Wish Upon a Star" Photo credit Stout Gardens at Dancingtree




This medal is restricted to standard dwarf bearded (SDB) irises. It is named in honor of Paul Cook (1891-1963) and Geddes Douglas (1902-1993).  

According to Clarence Mahan on the AIS Awards Page, " Paul Cook's work with dwarf irises was truly pioneering. His early breeding of dwarf irises led to a series of I. arenaria hybrids, the most notable being `Keepsake,' `Tampa,' and `Promise.' He was the first to use the true I. pumila in his breeding programs, and this resulted in the introduction of the first of the great stud irises in the standard dwarf class: 'Baria,' 'Fairy Flax,' and 'Green Spot.'"
"Douglas's historically most important hybridizing achievements were with dwarf irises. Working with stock from Paul Cook, Douglas's crosses of I pumila with tall bearded irises created the race of irises that came to be known as 'lilliputs.'"

The American Iris Society Encyclopedia describes the iris thus:

'Wish Upon A Star' (Paul Black, registered 2006). Seedling L326B. SDB, height 13" (33 cm), early, mid, late season bloom. Standards dark blue-purple blending to dark claret; style arms dark claret; falls dark purple-black, slightly lighter haft and edge; beards pale cream gold, white at end, large; pronounced sweet fragrance. I269A, 'Zap' sibling X 'Neutron'. Mid-America 2006. Honorable Mention 2008, Award of Merit 2010; Cook Douglas Medal 2013.
   
For more information on Miniature Tall Bearded Irises, please visit the Median Iris Society Webpage.
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