With almost 300 species to choose from, where can one go for iris advice? Join iris expert Ross “Rusty” BeVier for “Types of Iris, and Their Propagation,” a Green Thumbs presentation set for noon-1 p.m. Thursday, May 12, on Zoom.
BeVier will talk about the history of iris and first varieties, the types of iris and their uses in gardens, and newer varieties and where they can be found. He will go over growing techniques needed to maintain an iris bed, the sequences of growth, and why they are so important to successful iris growing.
Join by computer by clicking on the link at extension.wsu.edu/clallam/events/2022-05. Or, join by phone at 253-215-8782 (meeting ID 920 0799 1742, passcode 709395).
BeVier’s presentation will also cover the importance of using the right fertilizers and how fertilization effects the quality of growth. He will also delve into diseases to watch for and corrective measures someone can take if problems occur.
BeVier said he believes knowing more about each type of iris can open a larger world of gardening possibilities.
“Maintaining healthy plants and growth characteristics adds to the beauty of a garden and enhances the other plants present,” he said. “Adding newer varieties can be a surprising change to gardens and add to their enjoyment.”
As a Master Judge in the American Iris Society and iris hybridist, BeVier has been growing iris for nearly 50 years. He and his wife owned and operated My Wild Iris Rows, a commercial iris garden, and has given talks to schools, garden clubs and iris clubs for nearly 25 years. He has a teaching degree in industrial arts and a minor in teaching botany.
Sponsored by WSU Clallam County Master Gardeners, the Green Thumbs Garden Tips education series seeks to provide home gardeners with education on research-based sustainable garden practices in Clallam County.
The series is offered via streaming presentations from noon-1 p.m. the second and fourth Thursday each month through October (in November, December and January, one program is offered). Scheduled presentations are subject to change. Visit the WSU Extension Clallam County website calendar (extension.wsu.edu/clallam) for the latest information on upcoming presentations.
For more information, call 360-565-2679.
