dhloescher
Jun 28, 2009, 01:55 PM
The leaves of my bearded iris are turning brown. This has ot happened in the past and there is no indication of iris bore. Anyone out there have an answer? Dl
KUXJ
Jun 28, 2009, 02:28 PM
Hi! dhloescher, and Welcome to AMHD :)
The iris borer isn't the only insect that can affect Iris's.
Thrips -(larvae are tiny white pests) expose the plant to a fungal infection causing stunted growth, distorted flowers.
The bulb type of iris can also get bulb mites -leaves stunted/deformed and flowers disfigured or none.
Beetles, caterpillars, slugs can chew the flowers and foliage.
If you had aphids you would see them sucking on the leaves.
But you might have Iris leaf spot caused by a fungus.
Usually starts with small, water soaked spots that grow to 1/2 inch long spots with brownish purple center and yellow margins.
The fungus winters over on infected leaves and spreads to healthy leaves by splashed water.
To help control this remove infected leaves in the fall and if you have a severe infection spray with a fungicide. As with all chem's, follow the label directions.
If you haven't divided them for 3 to 5 years, they're due.
Has the drainage changed?
K