Choosing Companion Plants for Irises

Irises are beautiful and versatile flowers that come in a range of colors and sizes. They thrive in well-drained soil and moderate sunlight, making them a popular choice for gardens and landscapes. However, planting irises alone can sometimes leave a garden looking sparse. To create a balanced and colorful garden, it's important to choose complementary plants that will thrive alongside your irises. Here are some companion plants to consider:

1. Daylilies

Daylilies are a perfect companion plant for irises as they have similar sun and soil requirements. They are available in a range of colors, and their long bloom period make them perfect for filling in gaps between iris blooms. Daylilies also come in a range of heights, making it easy to choose the perfect variety to complement your iris plants.

2. Alliums

Alliums are a great companion plant for irises, especially taller varieties. Allium blooms come in a range of colors and heights, and their globe-shape flowers create an interesting contrast to the iris's sword-shaped leaves. Alliums also prefer well-drained soil and full sun, making them a perfect match for irises.

3. Salvia

Salvia is another great companion plant for irises as they are both low-maintenance and hardy. Salvia prefers full sun and well-drained soil, making it easy to plant alongside irises. Salvia blooms come in a range of colors, from vibrant blues and purples to soft pinks and reds, making them a great choice for adding additional color to your garden.

4. Coreopsis

Coreopsis is a low-growing and easy-to-manage plant that is perfect for filling in gaps between irises. The plant blooms in early summer and provides a burst of yellow or orange color to complement the softer tones of irises. Not only are they pretty, but they also attract pollinators, making it a great choice for a healthy and vibrant garden.

5. Catmint

Catmint is a low-growing and easy-to-maintain plant that blooms in the summer. It's a great companion plant for irises as it provides a burst of purple color and complements the shape of the iris's leaves nicely. Catmint also attracts pollinators, making it a great choice for a healthy and vibrant garden.

Conclusion

Planting irises need not be a solitary affair; there are many other plants to choose from that will complement and enhance their beauty. Choosing the right companion plants will help create a more balanced and colorful garden, while also providing additional benefits like attracting pollinators. With a little planning, you can enjoy a beautiful and thriving garden with a variety of plants that will bloom in turn throughout the season.