In most of the country, now is the time to divide your Bearded Iris.  You should do this every two or three years in midsummer, after blooming but before the weather starts to turn (July or August, usually).  Regular division of the rhizomes does wonders for preventing root rot and borer damage.  Plus, it encourages the plant to grow more vigorously and to flower more.  It also gives you a great opportunity to thoroughly inspect the plant for damaged or diseased parts that can be removed.  Bearded Iris is one of the easier plants to divide (especially when it comes to lifting the plant), but as with any division, be sure to allot enough time to finish the job, so you don’t have to leave your plants out and vulnerable longer than is necessary.

If you’re looking for an interesting Iris to try out this coming Spring, give ‘Dangerous Mood’ a try.  Not only is it a stunning flower that’s sure to leave an impression, it is one of my favorite plant names of all.