As a gardening and landscaping expert, I can confidently say that soaking iris bulbs before planting is not necessary. While soaking bulbs can be beneficial for some types of plants, it is not typically required for irises.
Irises are commonly grown from rhizomes, which are fleshy underground stems. These rhizomes already contain stored nutrients and moisture that allow them to survive and grow. Unlike bulbs, which are made up of layers of scales, rhizomes do not need soaking to rehydrate before planting.
Soaking bulbs before planting is often recommended to help rehydrate and plump up the roots, making them more pliable for planting. However, this is not a concern with iris rhizomes. They are naturally adapted to survive in various soil conditions and can establish themselves without the need for pre-soaking.
In my personal experience, I have planted many irises without soaking the rhizomes, and they have thrived and produced beautiful flowers. I have found that providing well-draining soil, proper spacing, and adequate watering after planting are more important factors for successful iris growth.
That being said, if you feel that soaking the rhizomes may help in your specific situation, it is safe to do so. Soaking for a short period, around 15-30 minutes, should be sufficient. However, it is crucial to ensure that the rhizomes are completely dry before planting to avoid rot or fungal diseases.
To summarize, soaking iris bulbs before planting is not necessary. While it may make the roots more pliable for planting, irises grown from rhizomes do not require this step. Focus on providing well-draining soil, proper spacing, and adequate watering for successful iris growth.
