Question
I read an article on the propogation of the seed pod. After they sprout it instructs to transplant to pots. I am wanting to transplant outside for more iris plants. Is that possible? I live in the Houston, Texas area.

I appreciate your assistance and look forward to hearing from you.

Thanks,

Carla

Answer
Hi Carla,
Thanx for your question.  Make sure you take the individual seeds out of the seed pod and plant them in your pot.  Many types of iris require a cold treatment in order to germinate.  This means, the seeds must be placed in a damp paper towel and placed inside a plastic baggie and placed inside the fridge for 60-90 days. There is a natural dormancy in the seeds to prevent them from germinating at the wrong time of year (fall and winter).  Once the seed has experienced a certain number of hours in a cold, damp environment, the minute it begins to warm up, hormones are triggered in the seed that cause it to germinate.  Once you have germinated the seeds, wait until they are large enough to handle and then take them outdoors after the last frost and place them in the shade in their pots for about 10 days so the seedlings can become acclimated to the outdoors.  After that, you may plant them in full sun.  I hope this helps.
Tom