Bearded Iris - Feel The Thunder

Bearded Iris - Feel The Thunder

The Bearded Iris "Feel The Thunder" is a stunning and vibrant variety known for its striking combination of colors and dramatic presence in any garden. With its bold, two-toned petals in shades of deep purple and gold, this iris variety truly stands out in the landscape. Whether planted in borders, beds, or containers, "Feel The Thunder" offers a show-stopping display that adds beauty and flair to your garden.

Key Benefits

Stunning Color Contrast: Features dramatic, rich purple and gold flowers that create a breathtaking visual contrast. Hardy & Resilient: Thrives in a variety of climates, offering reliable performance year after year. Low Maintenance: Once established, this iris variety requires minimal care and is relatively drought-tolerant. Attractive to Pollinators: The vibrant blooms attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, adding more life to your garden. Long Bloom Period: Blooms in late spring to early summer, providing extended color and interest in your garden.

Variety Features

Plant Characteristics: Bearded Iris "Feel The Thunder" features tall, sturdy stems topped with large, ruffled flowers. The blooms stand out with their unique two-toned coloration, with rich purple on the upper petals and golden tones on the lower ones. Flowering Season: Late spring to early summer, typically blooming for several weeks. Growth Habit: Grows in clumps of upright, sword-like leaves that provide a striking backdrop even when not in bloom. Size: Reaches a height of 30–36 inches with blooms measuring up to 5 inches wide.

Planting Instructions

Planting Season

• Best planted in early spring or fall for optimal growth and blooming.
• Thrives in well-drained soil and full sun but can tolerate light shade.

Planting Details

• Plant Depth: Set rhizomes with the tops just above the soil surface.
• Spacing: Space plants about 12–18 inches apart to allow for their wide spread.
• Soil Requirements: Prefers well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH of 6.0–7.0.
• Sunlight: Requires full sun to produce the best blooms.

Care Instructions

Watering

• Water regularly but allow the soil to dry out between waterings to avoid rot.
• Iris plants are drought-tolerant once established, but consistent watering promotes better flowering.

Fertilization

• Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as new growth begins.
• Avoid fertilizing in late summer or fall, as this can encourage late growth that is vulnerable to winter damage.

Weeding and Mulching

• Keep the area around the iris free of weeds to reduce competition for nutrients.
• Mulch lightly to retain moisture and keep the soil cool, but avoid mounding mulch around the rhizomes, which can cause rot.

Division

• Divide iris plants every 3–4 years to maintain strong blooms and promote healthy growth.
• Divide in late summer or early fall when the plant is dormant, and replant immediately.

Pest and Disease Control

Pests: Keep an eye out for iris borers, which can damage the foliage and rhizomes. Use insecticidal soap or remove affected plants to prevent spreading. Diseases: Iris plants are susceptible to fungal diseases such as leaf spot and rot. Ensure proper spacing, avoid overhead watering, and practice crop rotation.

Harvesting

Maturity: Bearded Iris "Feel The Thunder" blooms in late spring to early summer, typically within 2–3 years of planting, depending on conditions. Method: Deadhead spent blooms to promote more flowering, and trim the leaves back in the fall to prepare the plant for winter dormancy.

Storage

Short-Term: After blooming, cut flowers can be displayed in vases for up to a week. Long-Term: If dividing rhizomes, store them in a cool, dry place until ready for replanting in the fall.

Landscaping & Design Ideas

Flower Beds: Create striking color contrasts by planting "Feel The Thunder" alongside other perennials or contrasting colors. Borders: These tall irises make excellent additions to garden borders, providing vertical height and visual interest. Cut Flowers: Ideal for adding drama to floral arrangements, their bold color combination makes them a popular choice for bouquets.

Conclusion

Bearded Iris "Feel The Thunder" is a must-have variety for gardeners seeking a dramatic, vibrant addition to their landscape. With its rich, two-toned blooms, sturdy growth, and low-maintenance care, this iris variety is perfect for both beginner and experienced gardeners. Whether used in garden beds, borders, or as a cut flower, "Feel The Thunder" will provide a stunning show year after year, making it a standout in any garden setting.