Now that you are craving a few of these plants, chapter 10 discusses Culture of the Louisiana Iris. You'll learn where to plant the various species in relation to their proximity to water, type of soil needed, and proper planting methods. Of course, as with any plant, you need an awareness of potential pests and diseases you may confront when growing these irises.
The final chapters, 11 and 12, discuss using these irises in your landscape and in flower arrangements. Specific ideas for using them in the landscape are presented so the newcomer to these irises can succeed immediately. I particularly appreciated the discussion on using them in flower arrangements. In my opinion, too many authors forget that part of enjoying a plant is bringing them indoors to help decorate our living area.
Several appendices close out the book. You can find information on joining the Louisiana Iris Society, listings of popular cultivars, medal winners, and a glossary of iris related terms. If you get interested in diving further into the history of Louisiana irises, a bibliography of articles or books about Louisiana iris is provided -- something that will save you a great deal of research time.
Readers, it is very rare that I read a book and fail to find anything I would change! This is one of those times. I strongly feel that anyone with average gardening knowledge would find this book useful. I don't think one could read it without wanting to add some of these plants to their garden. The publication committee of the Louisiana Iris society deserves accolades for publishing a book written in a manner that people with varying degrees of horticultural knowledge can easily comprehend it. Even a beginner could follow the directions on using these plants and selecting just the right spot for them in their yard. Those with a more scientific bent will find enough details to help them establish some long-term hybridizing goals. I hope this book is submitted to the Garden Writers of America Association awards committee and any other organizations that make book related awards. It surely deserves one in the near future.
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