Iris 'Frank Elder' syn. Iris reticulata 'Frank Elder'

Split the irises every year, immediately after flowering has ended. At this point the early summer leaves and flower stems have started to die back, and the late summer leaves have started to grow. Split individual plants with a light spade, leaving the part to be retained undisturbed in the soil. Remove about 30-50% of the total plant mass. The aim is to leave plants about the size that would fit under an A5 sheet of paper. After splitting, cut back the early-summer leaves on the remaining plants, and cut or break off the flower stems. Finally, top-dress the plants.

The bulbs should be planted in late Summer or Autumn, and only about 2in deep. Great care must be taken when planting this iris not to damage the fleshy roots. Add coarse grit and bone meal before planting.

Plant bulbs in Autumn, making sure the top of the bulb is a good 3-4" below the level of the soil. Plant in soil that drains well. If the soil is not free-draining, add grit and compost below the bulb, to aid drainage. Bulbs can be planted 4" to 5" apart to let the bulbs naturalise, or closer together in pots in groups of odd numbers (e.g. 3, 5, 7 etc.). However, bulbs planted more closer together will need to be divided sooner to allow bulbs the space to grow and maintain flowering size.

Reticulate Irises flower earlier than other types of iris, and most varieties will flower from late Winter to mid Spring

Reticulate irises can be propagated by lifting the bulbs in late Summer or early Autumn and dividing the bulbs, then replanting, either in pots or in the desired flowering position in the border or on the rockery.