The Here Comes the Sun iris is a beautiful tall bearded iris variety that lives up to its name. This iris really does look like it got its color from the rising sun, with its bright golden yellow petals. Let’s take a closer look at this beautiful iris so you can choose if it’s the right plant for your garden.
Overview of Here Comes the Sun Iris
As was already said, the Here Comes the Sun iris has flowers that are a strong, bright golden yellow color. It blooms in the middle to late spring, when the garden needs a boost of sunshine the most. The flowers have the classic shape of an iris, with three “falls” that hang down and three “standards” that stand up straight. ” Subtle ruffles add texture and movement.
This iris grows to a height of about 36 inches, with well-branched stems that provide a nice display of flowers It was hybridized by Schreiner’s Gardens and introduced in 2007. The two parent irises are ‘Yukon Fever’ and ‘Orange Blossom Special’
In 2010 Here Comes the Sun received an Honorable Mention from the American Iris Society. This means it was recognized as an iris of excellence, even if it didn’t quite make it to the top of the list. The iris is known for having excellent substance, meaning the flower petals are firm and weather resistant.
Here Comes the Sun is hardy in zones 4-9. It thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. Once it’s established, it can handle drought like most tall bearded irises. It is easy to take care of, so it can be used in perennial borders, cottage gardens, and other places.
Where to Buy Here Comes the Sun Iris
If you’ve fallen in love with the gorgeous sunshine colors of the Here Comes the Sun iris, you may be wondering where you can get your hands on this variety.
Luckily, the iris is available from several reputable online nurseries that ship nationwide:
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As the first place to cross Here Comes the Sun with another plant, Schreiner’s Gardens sells the iris for $10 per rhizome. As the plants go to sleep in July, August, and September, the rhizomes are sent out.
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Breck’s – This company sells Here Comes the Sun for $32.99 per rhizome. Breck’s is known for high-quality bulbs and rhizomes. They ship in the fall.
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American Iris Society – Members of the AIS can order irises, including Here Comes the Sun, through the society’s iris exchanges and sales. This allows you to get rare or hard-to-find varieties.
When buying irises online, look for companies that ship at the proper planting time for your zone and package the rhizomes carefully to prevent damage. Make sure any guarantees are clearly stated before purchasing.
How to Plant and Grow Here Comes the Sun Iris
Caring for Here Comes the Sun iris is quite straightforward, but there are a few important tips to ensure success:
Sun and Soil
- Plant in full sun (at least 6 hours per day)
- Well-drained soil is ideal, but can tolerate a range of soil types
- Maintain a soil pH between 6.1-8.5
Planting
- Plant rhizomes in mid to late summer, before the first frost
- Set the rhizome so the top half is just above the soil surface
- Space rhizomes 12-24 inches apart depending on desired density
- Water thoroughly after planting
Care
- Water 1-2 times per week during the first year, then reduce frequency
- Apply fertilizer once a year, using a balanced 10-10-10 formula
- Avoid overcrowding by dividing iris clumps every 3-4 years
- Cut back foliage to 6 inches in late fall
Pests and Problems
- Can be susceptible to iris borers, leaf spot fungus, and soft rot
- Maintain good garden sanitation and avoid overcrowding to prevent disease
- Insecticidal soaps or neem oil can control iris borers if applied preventatively
Winter Care
- Mulch lightly in cold climates to protect rhizomes from temperature extremes
- Remove mulch in early spring so rhizomes don’t rot from excess moisture
Designing With Here Comes the Sun Iris
The vibrant golden color of Here Comes the Sun makes it a fun iris to design with. It provides a bold pop of color and immediately catches the eye.
To allow the iris to stand out, plant it with cool-toned companion plants like salvia, catmint, and lavender. These pastel purple tones complement the golden yellow beautifully.
For more contrast, pair Here Comes the Sun with dark red or wine colored flowers like ‘Black Cherry’ heirloom roses or ‘Firebird’ bee balm. The dark and light colors really make each other pop.
You can also use white flowering plants like ‘Iceberg’ roses, ‘Snowdrift’ astilbe, or ‘Maestro’ foxglove to create a bright, clean color scheme with the yellow iris as the star.
In cottage gardens, combine Here Comes the Sun with other cheerful heirloom varieties like columbines, poppies, coral bells, and dianthus. The eclectic mix of forms and colors suits the informal style.
For a real traffic-stopping display, plant dozens of Here Comes the Sun irises together in a bold mass planting. The sheer volume of gorgeous yellow will make anyone smile!
FAQs About Here Comes the Sun Iris
If you’re considering adding the Here Comes the Sun iris to your garden, you probably have a few questions. Here we’ll tackle some of the commonly asked questions about this variety.
Is Here Comes the Sun a repeat blooming iris?
No, unfortunately this iris only blooms once in the spring like most tall bearded irises. However, you can enjoy 3-4 weeks of flowers at that time.
Does Here Comes the Sun iris come back every year?
Yes! Iris rhizomes are perennials, meaning the plant will survive the winter and return in the spring. Here Comes the Sun is hardy even in cold zones 4-9.
How do I divide a Here Comes the Sun iris?
Dividing will help the irises grow and bloom their best. Divide clumps every 3-4 years in midsummer by digging up the entire clump and gently pulling the rhizomes apart. Replant the divisions 15 inches apart.
Is Here Comes the Sun fragrant?
No, most yellow and white iris varieties lack fragrance, including Here Comes the Sun. If you want a fragrant iris, look for varieties in shades of pink, purple, red or blue.
Does Here Comes the Sun need full sun?
Yes, this iris thrives best in a full sun location – ideally getting at least 6 hours of direct sun per day. Morning sun is especially important to fully develop the flowers.
Methods of Propagation
Propagation of Iris Here Comes the Sun can be achieved through two primary methods: division and seed propagation. Each method has its own level of difficulty and specific steps to follow.
- When: Early spring or late summer are the best times to divide your iris. This ensures optimal growth and recovery.
- Tools: To keep the plant from getting hurt, use a clean, sharp spade or knife. Clean tools help prevent disease transmission.
- Steps: Dig up the clump of rhizomes. Carefully lift the whole clump off the ground, being careful not to damage the roots. Healthy rhizomes with roots still attached should be gently pulled apart, making sure that each section has roots. Plant right away or store: If you’re not going to plant right away, keep the rhizomes somewhere cool and dry until you’re ready.
- To get the seeds, wait until the seed pods are dry after the flowers have died. This is the ideal time to gather seeds for propagation.
- Germination conditions: Seeds require cold stratification for 4-6 weeks. This mimics natural winter conditions and promotes germination.
- Planting seeds: Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep in well-draining soil. For the best results, keep the soil moist but not soaked.
By understanding these propagation methods, you can expand your iris collection or share them with fellow gardening enthusiasts. There are several different ways to enjoy the beauty of Iris Here Comes the Sun in your garden.
Next, let’s explore the lifecycle of this vibrant plant and what to expect as it grows.
The lifecycle of Iris Here Comes the Sun unfolds in distinct stages. It begins with germination, which takes about 2-3 weeks for seeds.
Following germination, the seedling stage lasts 4-6 weeks until true leaves emerge. During spring, the plant enters a phase of rapid vegetative growth, setting the stage for its vibrant display.
As late spring approaches, the iris bursts into bloom, showcasing its stunning flowers. If not deadheaded, the plant will produce seeds after flowering, continuing its lifecycle.
With proper care, Iris Here Comes the Sun can thrive for an average lifespan of 3-5 years. This longevity allows gardeners to enjoy its beauty season after season.
The journey to full maturity takes about 2-3 years. During this time, the iris exhibits a moderate growth rate, with noticeable seasonal growth spurts that keep it lively and engaging.
Understanding these lifecycle stages helps you appreciate the rhythm of your iriss growth. By nurturing it through each phase, you can ensure a flourishing display in your garden.
As we move forward, lets explore the size of this captivating plant and how it fits into your landscape.
Concept of Companion Planting
Companion planting is all about creating a harmonious garden ecosystem. It enhances diversity, boosts pest management, and promotes overall plant health.