Question
I have some Irises that have some of the best flowers I have seen. I have had them for several years. This year I got about nine seed pods on them. I would like to know how to process and plant them.

Answer
Hi David,
Thanx for your question.  I am going to assume that you have the German Bearded Iris which are the irises most of us are used to seeing growing in the garden.  Occasionally, they will develop seedpods.  Bear in mind that the seeds will probably not come true due to cross-pollination and hybridization but it is fun to see how things turn out.  Wait for the pod to dry up and turn brown.  You can bag the pods with a piece of nylon hose or cheese cloth so you don't lose the seeds when the pod starts to open.  The seeds usually require some kind of stratification meaning, you'll need to place them in a moist paper towel and seal them inside a plastic baggie and place in the refrigerator for 90 days.  In nature, the cold treatment prevents the seeds from germinating at the wrong time of year (autumn).  After the cold treatment, bring the seeds out of the fridge and plant 1/2 inch deep in a seed flat.  Keep warm 70-75F and germination occurs in 2-4 weeks.  The seedlings will look like grass.  When seedlings are large enough to handle, plant in separate pots or cells.  After the last frost, take the seedlings out doors and place in a shaded, protected place for 10 days to get the seedlings acclimated to the outdoors.  Prepare a nursery bed in full sun and keep it well weeded .  Seedlings will bloom in their 2nd or 3rd year.  I hope this helps.
Tom