Iris Laevigata

Hardiness zones 4-9, (-32°C/-25°F, -5°C/25°F) in Winter. This is a true aquatic Iris, requiring a wet site the entire year. Iris laevigata is used frequently in ponds, because it is one of the few Irises which will grow reliably in shallow water. It can also be grown in damp soil. Grow in moist to wet, deep, humus rich, acid soil. This Iris requires sun to partial shade, growing and flowering best in full. Germination First, you can scarify the seeds to try to speed up germination. For faster germination, soak the seeds in slightly hot water for 24-48 hours, followed by 3 months cold stratification before sowing, 1/4 inch deep, in your soil. Keep damp soil, not soaking wet. Keep pot in warm situation 20°C/68°F. Germination usually takes several months. It can be more, depending on their degree of unbroken dormancy, don't give up. Scarification Seed coats may be so hard that they are impermeable to water. They need to be scratched or broken using a knife or sandpaper, in order to germinate. Chip the seeds with a sharp knife or make a few swipes with a sharp edged file or use sandpaper to allow moisture being more readily absorbed. Cold stratification This will break their dormancy. It creates a cold and moist environment for the seeds. Mixed in seeds with slightly moistened vermiculite or peat, only damp in a ziplock bag. Close zip bag shut and store it in the salad crisper compartment of your refrigerator. If any seeds begin to sprout during the cold stratification, simply remove the seed and plant.