How to Grow Dutch Iris 'Wedgewood'
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Dutch Iris 'Wedgewood'
Iris × hollandica 'Wedgewood'
flowerDutch Iris 'Wedgewood' is a stunning hybrid iris variety prized for its striking blue and purple flowers with distinctive yellow markings. This spring-blooming bulb produces elegant, long-stemmed flowers ideal for cutting and ornamental garden displays. It combines the vigor of Dutch irises with exceptional color depth and form.
When should you plant Dutch Iris 'Wedgewood' in your zone?
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Example Dutch Iris 'Wedgewood' timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Dutch Iris 'Wedgewood'
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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First Dutch Iris 'Wedgewood' blooms
Around Jul 16≈ 90 days after planting
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 3-9, with best performance in zones 4-8
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Get my Dutch Iris 'Wedgewood' timeline →Growth Stages
Dormancy/Chilling Period
12-16 weeksBulbs are planted in fall and require 12-16 weeks of cold temperatures (below 55°F) to break dormancy and initiate flowering.
Store bulbs in cool conditions before planting. Plant in autumn (September-November) in cold climates; October-November in milder zones. Ensure adequate chilling time.
Sprouting
2-3 weeksGreen shoots emerge from the soil as temperatures warm in early spring, typically March-April depending on location.
Ensure soil is well-draining; remove any winter mulch once shoots appear. Monitor for slugs and snails. Water if spring rains are sparse.
Vegetative Growth
3-4 weeksTall, sword-like foliage develops; plants produce long stems with buds forming at the tips. Stems can reach 16-24 inches tall.
Water regularly to maintain moist (not wet) soil. Provide full sun exposure. Support tall stems with gentle staking if needed. Begin fertilizing with balanced or low-nitrogen formula.
Flowering
2-3 weeksExquisite flowers open with deep blue or purple standards (upright petals) and contrasting yellow falls (drooping petals), often with blue veining. Blooms typically appear April-May.
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage longer bloom. Cut flowers for arrangements in the morning when stems are hydrated. Avoid overhead watering to protect delicate petals.
Senescence & Storage
4-6 weeksFlowers fade and foliage begins to yellow and dry. Bulbs redirect energy back underground for next season.
Allow foliage to mature completely (6 weeks after flowering) before removing. Continue light watering during this period. Stop watering after foliage dies back completely.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Remove by hand, use beer traps, apply diatomaceous earth, or use copper barriers around plants
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Remove affected foliage, dig out affected rhizomes, apply insecticidal spray in late spring/early summer if borers detected
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Spray with strong water stream, use insecticidal soap, or apply neem oil if infestation is severe
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Increase humidity, spray with water, apply miticide if severe
Uses
Floral garnish (non-toxic)
CulinaryDutch iris petals are non-toxic and can be used as decorative elements in culinary presentations or as edible flower garnishes, though they are rarely used in cooking. [source]
Cut flowers & floral arrangements
Household'Wedgewood' produces long, sturdy stems ideal for cutting and is a favorite among florists for mixed spring arrangements and bridal bouquets. [source]
Garden design & landscaping
OrnamentalThe striking blue and purple coloration makes 'Wedgewood' a focal point in spring gardens, borders, and containers. Its formal, elegant appearance suits contemporary and traditional landscapes. [source]
Pollinator support
WildlifeEarly spring-blooming irises provide valuable nectar and pollen sources for emerging bees and other pollinators during the critical spring season when few other plants are in bloom. [source]
Dried flower arrangements
CraftIris stems and flowers can be dried for use in long-lasting dried arrangements and decorative projects, maintaining their elegant form and color depth. [source]
Harvest Tips
Cut flowers in early morning when stems are fully hydrated. Cut stems at an angle below the lowest bud to maximize vase life (7-10 days). Remove lower foliage below the waterline to prevent rot. Change water every 2-3 days and re-cut stems. Leave at least 2-3 leaves on the plant to support bulb development for next year.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Dutch irises are not native to Holland but rather hybrids developed in the Netherlands in the early 20th century, breeding Spanish, Portuguese, and North African iris species for superior cut-flower qualities.
- 🌱 'Wedgewood' was named for the distinctive blue and white Wedgwood pottery, reflecting the variety's elegant blue coloration combined with its yellow markings.
- 🌱 Unlike bearded irises that spread via rhizomes, Dutch irises are true bulbs that can be easily dug, stored, and replanted annually, making them ideal for gardeners who like to rotate plantings or share bulbs with friends.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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