Bearded Iris - Cubs Win It

Bearded Iris - Cubs Win It
The Bearded Iris "Cubs Win It" is a stunning, award-winning variety that features vibrant, eye-catching blooms. Known for its rich color palette and striking flower formation, this iris is a must-have for gardeners looking to add a burst of color to their landscape. The unique, ruffled petals and contrasting shades of blue, white, and gold make it a standout addition to any garden.

Key Benefits

• Vibrant Color: Features beautiful blue, white, and golden blooms, providing a striking visual contrast in your garden.
• Drought-Tolerant: Once established, the "Cubs Win It" iris is resistant to drought, making it a low-maintenance option for gardeners.
• Cold-Hardy: Well-suited for colder climates, this iris variety thrives in a variety of temperature conditions.
• Long-Lasting Blooms: Produces vibrant flowers during late spring to early summer, providing an extended bloom period in your garden.
• Award-Winning: A standout in the iris community, recognized for its exceptional beauty and resilience.

Variety Features

• Plant Characteristics: Tall, upright stems with ruffled, fragrant blooms.
• Flower Colors: Rich shades of blue, white, and gold with a touch of lavender.
• Growth Habit: Bearded irises have sword-like foliage with an elegant, branching flower stalk.
• Size: Typically grows 24–36 inches tall with a spread of 12–18 inches.

Planting Instructions

Planting Season

• Best planted in late summer to fall, allowing roots to establish before the winter months.
• Thrives in well-drained soil with a pH level of 6.0–7.0.

Planting Details

• Planting Depth: Plant rhizomes horizontally, with the top of the rhizome just above the soil surface.
• Spacing: Space plants 12–18 inches apart to allow for proper airflow.
• Soil Requirements: Prefers fertile, well-drained soil that is slightly acidic to neutral.
• Sunlight: Full sun is ideal for this variety, although it can tolerate partial shade.

Care Instructions

Watering

• Water regularly, but ensure the soil is not waterlogged. Allow the soil to dry out between waterings to prevent root rot.
• Be mindful not to overwater, as bearded irises prefer dry conditions once established.

Fertilization

• Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring to encourage healthy growth.
• Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, which can promote excessive leaf growth at the expense of blooms.

Weeding and Mulching

• Keep the planting area free of weeds to prevent competition for nutrients and water.
• Mulch around the base of the plant in late fall to protect the rhizomes from winter frost.

Pest and Disease Control

• Pests: Iris borers and aphids can occasionally affect bearded irises. Inspect regularly and use insecticidal soap or organic treatments if needed.
• Diseases: Iris rhizomes can be susceptible to rot if the soil doesn’t drain properly. Ensure proper spacing and airflow to reduce disease risk.

Harvesting

• Maturity: The "Cubs Win It" Bearded Iris typically blooms in late spring to early summer, depending on climate.
• Cutting: Cut flowers early in the morning for the longest vase life. Avoid cutting more than one-third of the plant to maintain overall health.

Storage

• Bearded irises do not require long-term storage, but rhizomes can be dug up and stored in a cool, dry place during the winter months if needed.

Culinary Uses

• While not typically used in cooking, bearded iris flowers can make beautiful additions to floral arrangements or used in decorative pots.

Conclusion

The Bearded Iris "Cubs Win It" is a show-stopping variety that brings bold, vibrant color and elegance to any garden. Its hardiness, low-maintenance care, and award-winning blooms make it a must-have for iris enthusiasts and new gardeners alike. Whether planted as a focal point or used in garden borders, this iris will add beauty and charm to your landscape for years to come.