Scottish Rock Garden Club Forum

Specific Families and Genera => Iris => Topic started by: Mark Griffiths on January 02, 2016, 11:14:46 AM

Title: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: Mark Griffiths on January 02, 2016, 11:14:46 AM
Happy New Year all! Following advice last year it looks as if I've managed to rougue out the virused Katherine Hodgkin bulbs and this year there is no sign. Might be the early season but at least this year the blooms are unblemished.



 
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: Matt T on January 02, 2016, 11:36:10 AM
Well done, Mark! She looks very clean. A few noses showing in my pot, so hopefully she'll be out for me too soon.
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: Mark Griffiths on January 02, 2016, 03:35:59 PM
My mum gave me one of the DIY bulb kits last year - this year they are even better. No label of course - a member suggested "Alida" - it is however a bit darker than it's photo - maybe it could be Harmony?

I also have one Iris Pixie out - no sign of any other bulbs in that pot and a few well above the ground in pots and outside.

Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: Roma on January 12, 2016, 10:04:11 PM
A few reticulate irises trying to flower here.  I had 3 flowers on 'Dance On' but they didn't open well.  This one appeared in a pot of 'Sunshine'  one of Alan McMurtrie's hybrids.  I sent Alan a pic and he identified it as Iris 'North Star' 00-BC-1 which is not due to be released till this year.  Another 3 showing colour in the pot look a deeper yellow so hopefully they are correct.  It is a pity Alan's hybrids can get mixed up even before they are on sale.

Iris 'North Star'   still waiting for 'Sunshine'  ;D
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: Graeme on January 12, 2016, 10:07:29 PM
Roma that is one nice flower - please post any others that may appear
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: Matt T on January 12, 2016, 10:08:42 PM
... still waiting for 'Sunshine'  ;D
Aren't we all?

'North Star' is lovely, a not unwelcome surprise I hope, Roma?
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: Steve Garvie on January 17, 2016, 12:46:22 AM
Iris kolpakowskiana
(https://c2.staticflickr.com/2/1699/23798511123_1a583d8b14_o.jpg)
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: Yann on January 22, 2016, 08:06:30 PM
Iris reticulata 'Pauline' shooted with and old soviet lens helios 44
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: udo on January 24, 2016, 06:04:30 PM
Iris `Eyecatcher` in greenhouse.
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: Yann on January 24, 2016, 06:39:46 PM
Well named ;D
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: Lewis Potter on January 24, 2016, 07:29:02 PM
Iris reticulata 'Blue Note'
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: Maggi Young on January 24, 2016, 07:57:43 PM
'Blue Note' is lovely, Lewis.
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: PeterT on January 24, 2016, 08:40:34 PM
I. 'Winowgradowii Alba' I. reticulata/ hyrcana from Iran, and iris (reticulata) kopetdagense in a form which produces it's leaves just before flowering
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: Roma on January 25, 2016, 10:25:24 PM
'Sunshine' at last though not much of the other kind recently.
Iris 'Sunshine'
Iris danfordiae
Iris 'Spot On'
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: johnstephen29 on January 25, 2016, 11:20:27 PM
Great little collection of irises you have in flower there Roma.
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: johnstephen29 on January 27, 2016, 06:56:39 PM
Here's a pot of iris danfordiae of my own in flower and smelling great.

Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: David Nicholson on January 27, 2016, 07:09:09 PM
Enjoy them John, you may not see them next year! :(
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: johnstephen29 on January 27, 2016, 08:12:11 PM
Splitting into rice grains you mean David? I heard that if you planted them deeper than normal this stops this happening, I've done this so we'll see if it's true.
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: David Nicholson on January 27, 2016, 08:37:38 PM
I've tried then at nearly JCB depth and they still didn't come back :(
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: ashley on January 27, 2016, 08:59:46 PM
Could this be a problem with the particular clone(s) of I. danfordiae grown commercially, or even how they are treated during the production process?
In my (admittedly limited) experience splitting after flowering doesn't usually happen with seed-grown plants.
 
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: PeterT on January 27, 2016, 09:22:42 PM
Dutch grow Iris danfordiae is a sterile triploid, I believe. It comes back and flowers for me every year. I planted in a raised bed topped with about ten inches of limestone gravel, I do occasionally feed it, but it is open to the elements in the white peak, north Derbyshire, England. It has been there for about 15 years now.
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: johnstephen29 on January 27, 2016, 09:37:11 PM
Thanks for all the advice David, Ashley and Peter, I'll treat it like I do my other bulbs, feed it when it has finished flowering and when it dies down see what I'm left with.
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: Roma on January 27, 2016, 10:44:20 PM
A couple of mild days has brought on the reticulata irises.  What is going to brighten up the greenhouse in February?[attachimg=1][attachimg=2][attachimg=3]
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: Roma on January 27, 2016, 11:03:04 PM
I am lucky if I get more than two years flowering in pots and I have not tried any reticulata irises in the garden recently.  I find Iris histrioides and its hybrids more persistent.  I remember one in the Cruickshank Garden which clumped up and flowered regularly for a long time  -  the purple Iris reticulata 'Hercules'.  I'm not sure if it is still available.
another gripe is bulbs which do not even survive to flower the year they are planted.  Could be how I treat them but if they are healthy bulbs surely they should flower anyway.
Iris danfordiae - 10 bulbs planted and only 4 showing.  I planted another 10 in the garden and there seem to be more coming up there.
Iris 'Sunshine' - 7 out of 10.  8 counting 'North Star'
Iris 'Palm Springs'  this is much bigger.  I believe it is a sport of 'George'  which is a histrioides type.   
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: Matt T on January 28, 2016, 09:22:42 AM
A couple of mild days has brought on the reticulata irises.  What is going to brighten up the greenhouse in February? (Attachment Link) (Attachment Link) (Attachment Link)

Fabulous colour on display in your greenhouse, Roma! What a treat on a grey day :)
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: chasw on January 29, 2016, 07:21:31 PM
here is retuculata Pixie,Blue Note and Clairette
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: PeterT on January 29, 2016, 07:42:09 PM
Thanks for all the advice David, Ashley and Peter, I'll treat it like I do my other bulbs, feed it when it has finished flowering and when it dies down see what I'm left with.
Apologies to those who already understand what I have to say. I hope that it will help some of the other visitors to this thread.

Reticulate Iris in pots are very prone to fungal infections, if they are hot and wet. A lot has been written about Ink Spot Disease, most of which I do not really agree with. Healthy bulbs can often be retrieved from infected stock. When temperatures rise in Spring; it is important to EITHER keep the plants cool until they go dormant, OR to bring growth to a stop and dry them out prematurely. Both solutions work for me.

Hot wet alpine bulbs = ROT!

The second major problem with cultivating these Iris in pots is premature dormancy. This occurs when either the plant becomes too hot, or when the plant lacks water at it's roots.   Watering plants at this stage, again, may cause rot.

Wet bulbs without roots (often) = ROT

Premature dormancy is serious because until the plant has replaced the bulb during it's Spring growth, there will be nothing to survive the Summer, and re-grow during the next Winter.
Most reticulate Iris which I grow in pots are grown in a compost of coarse leaf mould mixed with sand, grit and loam. I use a very similar mixture for most cormous plants -especially Crocus. The reason is that the leaf mould holds a moisture reservoir which prevents the roots drying in dry weather, and I do plunge the pots, so as to prevent the bulbs from heating on hotter days.
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: Mark Griffiths on January 30, 2016, 03:18:18 PM
Interesting Peter. I'm trying reticulate iris again after a break of decades. Hopefully I'll make a go of it this time. Blue Note



Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: ian mcenery on January 30, 2016, 06:39:39 PM
This one surprised me today Iv'e had it for a number of years and this is the first time it has flowered
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: PeterT on January 30, 2016, 06:49:07 PM
One of my favorites Ian. Mine came from the Wallises years ago as a tiny bulb
Iris zagrica seedlings with a flower here this morning, from JJA seed.
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: PeterT on January 30, 2016, 06:59:30 PM
Iris "Winowgradowii Alba" this morning.
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: ashley on January 30, 2016, 07:07:17 PM
Beautiful irises Peter and Ian, as indeed are all the others above.
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: PeterT on January 30, 2016, 07:22:40 PM
Thanks Ashley.
 I have just noticed the first flower on Iris winowgradowii its self, opening in one of these pictures. Much earlier than usual and I missed it this morning.
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: Lewis Potter on January 30, 2016, 08:25:51 PM
Can you get seeds of Iris danfordiae? All I can find is the tetraploid clone, I understand that form is sterile.
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: PeterT on January 30, 2016, 08:32:21 PM
I find the diploid form of I danfordiae difficult to grow, I have grown it from seeds to flowering, but I have never managed to get seeds from it. :-\
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: ian mcenery on January 30, 2016, 11:41:16 PM
One of my favorites Ian. Mine came from the Wallises years ago as a tiny bulb
Iris zagrica seedlings with a flower here this morning, from JJA seed.

Mine came from the same source I think in 2011 let's hope it grows a little faster

Nice zagrica Peter mine are a little behind yours
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: ian mcenery on January 31, 2016, 12:25:42 AM
Beautiful irises Peter and Ian, as indeed are all the others above.

Thanks Ashley

I do like reticulatas when they grow outside . I just love the tapestry that all spring bulbs make. Spring is sprung
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: Yann on January 31, 2016, 02:56:06 PM
Iris reticulata var. caucasica x histrioides 'Atilla' by Alan, hybrid 91-DR-2
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: johnstephen29 on January 31, 2016, 04:04:59 PM
That's a mouthful of a title Yann for a lovely little iris.
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: arilnut on January 31, 2016, 05:07:15 PM
First iris this year outside in zone 6.
Alan's   Debonair

John B
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: Steve Garvie on January 31, 2016, 10:15:56 PM
Iris hyrcana A dark form obtained from Leonid Bondarenko of Lithuanian Rare Bulbs.
(https://c2.staticflickr.com/2/1692/24614820412_a679470d64_o_d.jpg)
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: Tasmanian Taffy on January 31, 2016, 10:24:55 PM
Love that Iris Hyrcana  Steve absolutely stunning and a beautiful photo as usual
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: PeterT on January 31, 2016, 11:21:56 PM
Iris hyrcana A dark form obtained from Leonid Bondarenko of Lithuanian Rare Bulbs.
(https://c2.staticflickr.com/2/1692/24614820412_a679470d64_o_d.jpg)
Perhaps a mixed lable? This looks like an Iris bakeriana, or hybrid.... perhaps Clairette?
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: Steve Garvie on January 31, 2016, 11:47:36 PM
Perhaps a mixed lable? This looks like an Iris bakeriana, or hybrid.... perhaps Clairette?
Thanks for your suggestion. I haven't mixed labels.
It was bought as "Iris hyrcana Dark" from Leonid Bondarenko, a normally reliable source. Beyond that I have no knowledge of its provenance. For what it's worth the plant seems to be different to the image shown in Leonid's catalogue.
That said I struggle to see the difference between Iris hyrcana and some forms of I. reticulata.
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: PeterT on February 01, 2016, 12:12:48 AM
Iris reticulata is very variable,  and to some extent the variability follows a geographic pattern. I do not understand all the forms, but the hyrcana types, such as the one I showed above, Kuh-e-Abr, and the long cultivated miniature also pictured above have a chalky colour, sometimes veering to purple, (as in Talysh Form),straight sided hafts widening to the point where the fall bends down, and quadrangular leaves. I think that they come from north eastern Iran.
Iris bakeriana has a more spindly flower, -hafts more parallel with an octagonal leaf cross section, though there is supposed to be a hexagonal form and other variation. I think that I bakeriana is found in the south west of Iran. Leonid's site does show a darker form of hyrcana, but it is purple, within the range of Talysh form.
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: PeterT on February 01, 2016, 12:19:04 AM
not pictures from this winter, but these are plants which I grow as Iris bakeriana
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: PeterT on February 01, 2016, 12:21:00 AM
and these as hyrcana:
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: Steve Garvie on February 01, 2016, 07:07:02 AM
Thanks Peter.
I see what you mean.
My plant does indeed look very similar to your first image of Iris bakeriana. A "species" I have never knowingly grown before.
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: Florian_L on February 02, 2016, 03:31:08 PM
Hello everyone,

just two pictures of Iris reticulata 'Pauline' bought in sept/oct 2015.

[attach=1][attach=2]

This cultivar seems to be very similar to I.'Pixie', posted by chasw (http://www.srgc.net/forum/index.php?topic=13882.msg349531#msg349531)
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: Cfred72 on February 02, 2016, 03:55:45 PM
Voici à quoi ressemble 'Pixie' chez moi

[attach=1][attach=2][attach=3]
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: Cfred72 on February 02, 2016, 04:06:31 PM
Aujourd'hui matin, j'ai fait le tour au jardin et dans la serre
[attach=1]
Iris danfordiae
[attach=2]
Iris histrioides 'George'
[attach=3]
Iris 'Katharine Hodgkin'
[attach=4]
Iris reticulata 'Harmony'
[attach=5]
Iris reticulata 'Alida'
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: Alan McMurtrie on February 03, 2016, 02:25:23 AM
Peter,

The original location for bakeriana is south east Turkey between Mardin and Savur.  I collected it there 30 years ago.  Forms in that area do indeed have octagonal leaves.  Subsequently forms with 6 ribbed leaves have been found into Iran (per Brian Mathew).  Which would lead to the conclusion that bakeriana is actually a varietal form of Iris reticulata
Iris reticulata var. bakeriana

Incidentally my hybrid Spot On, which is finally becoming available in the large-scale commercial market, is 'Purple Gem' x bakeriana ANMc2275

[attachimg=1]
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: Maggi Young on February 03, 2016, 11:00:03 AM
A reminder in these Iris  pages about Alan McMurtie's appearance at the  SRGC DUNBLANE EARLY DWARF BULB DISPLAY
 Saturday 20th February 10.00 am to 4.00 pm
Victoria Hall, Stirling Rd, Dunblane, Perthshire   FK15 9EX

 see all details here:   

http://www.srgc.net/forum/index.php?topic=13954.0 (http://www.srgc.net/forum/index.php?topic=13954.0)   
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: art600 on February 03, 2016, 11:28:18 AM
Alan

I am enjoying 'Spot On' now.  Excellent plant.

Looking forward to your talk at the Early Spring Show in Harlow on Feb 27th.

Arthur
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: chasw on February 03, 2016, 05:51:41 PM
We should also be there Arthur  :) :)
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: Chris Johnson on February 04, 2016, 12:20:56 PM
Iris histrioides 'Lady Beatrix Stanley'
Growing in the covered raised bed. Not really enough light at this time of year but good protection from the element.

Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: johnstephen29 on February 04, 2016, 06:32:19 PM
Iris reticulata Caucasus, from Janis in flower. It's a loverly little iris and a great addition to my collection.

Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: udo on February 06, 2016, 02:51:55 PM
Iris histrio var.aintabensis, dark form
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: Graeme on February 07, 2016, 09:16:44 PM
nothing special - just what is in flower today

Frank Elder - only flowers every second year for me - but very welcome

[attachimg=1]

Palm Springs - about twice the size of anything else

[attachimg=2]

Sheila Ann Germany - fantastic colour

[attachimg=3]

Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: Steve Garvie on February 08, 2016, 09:22:31 PM
Iris zagrica
(https://c2.staticflickr.com/2/1456/24783822642_79a553df52_o_d.jpg)
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: Cfred72 on February 08, 2016, 09:30:02 PM
Quels magnifiques Iris Steve  :)
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: Steve Garvie on February 08, 2016, 10:29:34 PM
Quels magnifiques Iris Steve  :)
Merci beaucoup mon ami!  ;)
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: YT on February 09, 2016, 07:31:50 AM
Lovely irises, Graeme and Steve!

Iris histrio, Turky, Hatay. From Janis.
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: annew on February 09, 2016, 07:45:21 PM
Alan's lovely Eyecatcher - well named!
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: Roma on February 09, 2016, 09:57:14 PM
'Eyecatcher' is starting to flower with me too. 
Iris histrioides 'Reine Immaculee'
Iris histrioides 'Major' in the garden.  I dug this up a few years ago I was going to redo the bed.  I have lots of little bulbs in pots which I must plant out.  This one must have grown from a small bulb.
I had a few Iris danfordiae about to open yesterday but a hungry rabbit or deer must have chomped them last night >:(
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: Tasmanian Taffy on February 10, 2016, 03:50:33 AM
Hi Steve,
absolutely love Iris Zagrica, I managed to buy some seeds from Kurt Vickery earlier this year so will be sowing them next month ( Autumn) here.
Steve if you don't mind me asking what camera / lens do use for your magnificent photo's.
Regards John.
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: Steve Garvie on February 10, 2016, 10:14:34 AM
Thanks John.
I use a Canon 7D with a Canon EOS 100mm IS macro lens.

Light levels here in Scotland at this time of year are generally poor. I prefer to handhold rather than using a tripod and so image stabilisation is of vital importance.
Even top of the range cameras have a dynamic range which cannot match the human eye -so the range of light to dark perceived by the human eye is "compressed" in a digital SLR. As a result placing the plant within ambient light but against a dark out of focus background helps the image to "pop".

The Iris zagrica image was taken just prior to dusk when blue light predominates -hence the enhanced blue/cyan of this image.
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: Tasmanian Taffy on February 10, 2016, 05:52:07 PM
Thanks Steve,
I use a Canon 60D also with a Canon 100mm macro IS lens, truly great cameras. I know how to use the camera all I need to learn is how to post my photos on the forum
maybe one day I will find some spare time and sit down and work it out. All the best and keep those Iris photos coming,
Cheers John.
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: Mark Griffiths on February 11, 2016, 06:25:22 PM
 Just discovered that alot of mine have already rotted. They were outside in pots so got very wet. I brought some into the greenhouse to flower and even though they've only been there a couple of weeks and then back out alot have already rotted. Don't know whether it was becauae they got too wet before, or being in the greenhouse or too wet since. Can't grow them outside as the slugs just destroy them.  :'(
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: art600 on February 11, 2016, 07:55:24 PM
Iris zagrica
(https://c2.staticflickr.com/2/1456/24783822642_79a553df52_o_d.jpg)

Found on the Iraqi border in Iran.  It looks different from yours and I was told it was zagrica.  Have neither seed nor bulbs.
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: Cfred72 on February 12, 2016, 07:01:06 AM
It looks the same great base color marks. They are paler and have just drawing less marked lines. May render the picture is different ...
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: YT on February 13, 2016, 03:16:46 AM
Iris ‘Sea Green’ A McM's hybrid :)
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: Johan K. on February 14, 2016, 09:50:33 PM
Iris histrioides 'Cantab'

Iris histrioides 'Harmony'

Iris histrioides 'Zwanenburg'
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: Johan K. on February 14, 2016, 09:53:42 PM
Iris reticulata 'Blue Note'

Iris reticulata 'Clairette'

Iris reticulata 'Eyecatcher'

Iris reticulata 'Gordon'

Iris reticulata 'Katharine Hodgkin'
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: Maggi Young on February 14, 2016, 09:59:09 PM
A great number of fine plants flowering for you now, Johan!
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: Florian_L on February 19, 2016, 12:39:25 PM
Voici à quoi ressemble 'Pixie' chez moi
Effectivement, je pensais également plus à ce genre de coloris. Il semble qu'il y ai une petite erreur de nom/identification chez Chasw.

Ok, it seems there is a problem of correspondence between Iris 'Pixie' and Iris 'Pauline'  in Chasw garden.


@Steve Garvie : Very elegant iris !

Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: Yann on February 19, 2016, 07:08:09 PM
Tatsuo this Alan's hybrid is psychedelic ::)
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: YT on February 20, 2016, 01:58:23 AM
Something chemical and acid. Back to the '60s ;)
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: Alan McMurtrie on February 20, 2016, 07:20:32 PM
I had a great time in Dunblane today.
Spot On was recommended for an Award of Merit, and Sunshine and Scent Sational for Preliminary Commendations
[I missed getting a photo of the Scent Sational pot]

[attachimg=1]
[attachimg=2]
[attachimg=3]
[attachimg=4]
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: Alan McMurtrie on February 22, 2016, 02:42:34 PM
RHS London Spring Plant Fair, Feb 16-17, 2016
Pristine (03-FQ-1) and Velvet Smile (87-CQ-3) were given Preliminary Commendations

[attachimg=1]
[attachimg=2]
[attachimg=3]
[attachimg=4]
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: Maggi Young on February 22, 2016, 04:24:20 PM
'Velvet Smile' is rather lovely.
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: David Nicholson on February 22, 2016, 04:28:22 PM
'Velvet Smile' is rather lovely.

...... as are all of the others. Must be very worth while all of the work you have put into them Alan.
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: Matt T on February 22, 2016, 04:30:08 PM
'Velvet Smile' is rather lovely.

Even lovelier 'in the flesh', Maggi. Alan has so many hybrids showing new colours and patterns that there is literally something for everyone, no matter what your taste. 'Velvet Smile' is one of my favourites, but those in brown tones really appeal to me too.
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: Graeme on February 22, 2016, 05:52:42 PM
but those in brown tones really appeal to me too.
The all look stunning - but the brown tones are really unusual - top quality display
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: Lesley Cox on February 25, 2016, 08:36:23 PM
In the first reply on this page (6) there was brief mention of a cultivar called 'Pixie.' Does anyone have a picture of this form they could post here please? I ask because for the first time ever, it is available in New Zealand, or listed as such anyway by a well-known firm but in their illustration it looks exactly like 'Harmony' in colour, size and shape, the yellow crest and even to the length of the foliage at flowering time. I'll order it anyway but it would be good to have something a little different from the mere 4 or 5 forms which we can get every year but no others.
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: Maggi Young on February 25, 2016, 08:53:28 PM
'Pixie' is reputed to be a sport of 'Harmony'  I believe.  It's got a bit more scent if I remember correctly.
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: Roma on February 25, 2016, 10:46:15 PM
Iris 'Blue Note'
Iris 'White Caucasus'
Iris 'Katharine Hodgkin'  there is a lot more of it coming up in a bergenia nearby but all the flowers have been eaten. I don't know how this little clump escaped.  It may not be there tomorrow 
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: Cfred72 on February 26, 2016, 08:34:13 PM
'Pixie' is reputed to be a sport of 'Harmony'  I believe.  It's got a bit more scent if I remember correctly.

At home, it is fragrant  :D
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: johnralphcarpenter on February 28, 2016, 05:25:04 PM
Iris 'Blue Note' brightening up a cold dull day.
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: Johan K. on February 28, 2016, 06:40:17 PM
Iris histrioides 'Lady Beatrix Stanley' (1)

Iris histrioides 'Joyce' (2)
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: Lesley Cox on February 28, 2016, 10:24:47 PM
I really love that very dark colouring of 'Blue Note.'
I was lucky enough to get half a dozen seeds of Lady B from the seedlist. I hope they germinate and come reasonably true. I hist. 'Major' doesn't seem to be in NZ any longer, or not to my knowledge anyway.
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: chasw on February 29, 2016, 11:08:02 AM
Florian it looks as though the reputable seller that I purchased Pixie from ,had it muddled up,I will have to alter my label,thanks
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: Matt T on March 08, 2016, 12:32:49 PM
Alan McMurtrie handed out some postcards at the SRGC Early Bulb Display in Dunblane depicting just a small selection of his hybrids. I'm sure he won't mind me sharing them here now.
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: Alan McMurtrie on March 08, 2016, 08:11:21 PM
Found these two "yellow" Eye Catcher in the field today -- wonder if they are stable.  ...and I think you will also enjoy 03-JM-2

[attachimg=1]
[attachimg=2]


For comparison here's an Eye Catcher with yellow partially on one fall

[attachimg=3]
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: de.da. on March 19, 2016, 11:32:31 PM
(http://666kb.com/i/d7d5tpzyyfl70e0o1.jpg)


Daniel
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: udo on March 20, 2016, 08:10:16 PM
the last Reticulatas here:
Iris histrioides from Soganli, NE-Turkey
Iris winogradowii, Caucasus
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: ebbie on March 21, 2016, 07:34:58 AM
udo, your Iris winogradowii is superb.
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: Alan McMurtrie on April 01, 2016, 04:14:54 AM
The most unusual new Retic is 09-LE-2
It's ones like this that make me realize I don't truly know what is possible.  At the same time, it's ones like this that make it all worthwhile.
As I said in my talks, hybridizing is like a game.  Clearly I have found a secret passage to a new level
[attachimg=1]
[attachimg=2]

My second favourite this year is 10-AX-2
[attachimg=3]
[attachimg=4]

A cute white from 2009 seed
[attachimg=5]
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: Lesley Cox on April 01, 2016, 04:39:54 AM
Don't get quite lost down that passage Alan. ;D
I can hardly wait until next year's batch.
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: Cfred72 on April 01, 2016, 05:56:50 PM
Ils sont superbes vos Iris, Allan
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: Alan McMurtrie on April 06, 2016, 01:07:45 AM
A few more special Retics
11-GN-3     [Believe it or not: Down To Earth x Orange Glow]   You can see the Orange Glow in it
[attachimg=1]
[attachimg=2]

10-CR-1     [Pollen parent is: It's Magic]
[attachimg=3]
[attachimg=4]

I don't expect everyone will like 09-AI-1
[attachimg=5]
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: fermi de Sousa on April 06, 2016, 02:54:08 AM
A few more special Retics

I don't expect everyone will like 09-AI-1

I love'm all, Alan,
I just wish someone here would import them for us to try!
I got a few through Marcus when he was importing directly from Janis but he stopped importing a few years ago,
cheers
fermi
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: Lesley Cox on April 06, 2016, 05:46:32 AM
They just get better and better! 8) 8) 8) 8) 8)
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: Lewis Potter on April 07, 2016, 06:42:48 PM
I do like them Alan. Some really awesome colour combinations you've created there.
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: Janis Ruksans on April 08, 2016, 08:19:04 AM
Some reticulatas from my collection
At first 'Sky Blue' - selection of Zhirair Basmajyan, found near Vanadzor in Armenia
and then 3 whites
'White Caucasus' - pity, here asllways something bluish, never sdo white as suspected (and not only with me)
winogradovii 'Alba' - really sterile hybrid, not winogradovii
and as last - true purest white
'Armenian Ararat' - selection of Zhirair Basmajyan, named by me remembering Armenian saint mount Ararat, sold by comunists (Lenin's government) to Turkey.
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: Gabriela on April 08, 2016, 07:59:02 PM
I wish someone HERE would import all of these wonderful hybrids and cultivars! including those from Janis. Except few common reticulata and histrioides cv. there is nothing available. And they do so well even when grown outside.
One company had some of Alan's hybrids last year but in such small numbers that I didn't get any  :(
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: Alan McMurtrie on April 09, 2016, 04:58:05 AM
Good news Gabriela,

Botanus.com will have 6 of my hybrids this year (9 are available in quantity from Holland).  Last year their supplier was trialing my hybrids.  In total 8,500 were sold.  This year the supplier is bring in 57,000.

In addition Veseys.com will have 3 including Scent•sational (no other Canadian firm ordered it).  TradeWindsInternational.ca (http://flowerbulbsrus.com (http://flowerbulbsrus.com)) will have Eye Catcher and White Caucasus.

I will have a few bulbs of Orange Glow available.  They are more expensive, since the stock is low, but I want start to offset the €2,000 I paid out of my pocket last year for Plant Breeders Rights.  About 150 have been ordered so far of the up to 400 that will be available.

Folks here in Canada will have good access to my hybrids.  People in England have a slightly better selection.  It's the U.S. that isn't being as well served as it could be.  And of course, at the moment none have been ordered for New Zealand (encourage Van Eeden in Invercargill) and Australia.  Some are going to Japan, Sweden, and Germany.

I have tried to let companies know my hybrids exist and can be ordered.  The #2 importer in Canada ignored me in December, which means companies like Sheridan Nurseries won't be selling them
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: Gabriela on April 09, 2016, 02:05:21 PM
This is indeed good news!  :) :) :)

I ordered previously other bulbs from Veseys, the other company I never heard of until now. I am not sure who the #2 importer is here (unless it starts with V...) but I am not surprised unfortunately.
Since I am at a new place I looked last fall even for the otherwise regulars like JS Dijt, Natasha, Harmony...which I used to have all and couldn't find any.
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: Maggi Young on April 09, 2016, 02:35:02 PM
  People in England have a slightly better selection. 

  I think, I hope, that Alan "means" the UK when he says "England"  - a bit of a surprise that a Canadian doesn't know the difference!  ::) ;)
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: fermi de Sousa on April 09, 2016, 02:50:19 PM
I had a discouraging experience talking about Alan's hybrids to a "general" nurseryman, telling him about the incredible range of colours and saying that they would only be quite small.
His only comment "Not much use to me then!"(or words to that effect).
I forgot that some of the things we treasure others disregard :-\
cheers
fermi
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: Gabriela on April 09, 2016, 03:36:03 PM
  I think, I hope, that Alan "means" the UK when he says "England"  - a bit of a surprise that a Canadian doesn't know the difference!  ::) ;)

You would be surprised Maggi about how many people don't know the difference! I am also wondering if all UK citizens are aware of all Canadian provinces  ;D
Actually, I heard of legal actions that were started in regards with the 'allegiance to the Queen' part that is included in the Oath of Citizenship in Canada. There are many that think it should be removed.

Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: grackle on April 09, 2016, 03:39:12 PM
Gabriela you might want to check out http://www.thimblefarms.com/ (http://www.thimblefarms.com/) another BC company as well. I just found them last year and was impressed with their width of selection in Natives and Orchids. Alan they seem to have few varieties of reticulates they could stand some beefing up. ;)
The loss of Garden Imports has hit many of us hard. It is as if we never considered that they might retire. I think Botanus picked up much of their stock.
pam
(Who hates typo-ing names)
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: johnw on April 09, 2016, 09:47:54 PM
You would be surprised Maggi about how many people don't know the difference! I am also wondering if all UK citizens are aware of all Canadian provinces  ;D
Actually, I heard of legal actions that were started in regards with the 'allegiance to the Queen' part that is included in the Oath of Citizenship in Canada. There are many that think it should be removed.

These are people who have gone to court immediately after swearing allegiance and then get the oath to the Queen nullified.  Instead I'd say their oath should be nullified and given the old heave ho.

One of the very few who have done this went to court to arrange the retraction prior to taking the oath, I read that as the oath was not sworn in good faith, similar to under false pretenses which is legal grounds to nullify citizenship.

johnw
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: Gabriela on April 10, 2016, 03:24:55 PM
Thanks Pam. I bought plants from Fraser’s a few times,…..It is good material, only that the distance/charges makes it unpractical unless you can place a very large order.
Being situated in Vancouver Island, our sort of Canadian ‘banana belt’, I am afraid that especially plants grown there from seeds won’t adapt too well in our 5-6 zone.
The last record 2013/14 winters made a dent in everyone’s collections, but it is a sure thing that local plants/and grown from seeds were more resilient.

Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: Gabriela on April 10, 2016, 03:29:53 PM
These are people who have gone to court immediately after swearing allegiance and then get the oath to the Queen nullified.  Instead I'd say their oath should be nullified and given the old heave ho.

One of the very who have done this went to court to arrange the retraction prior to taking the oath, I read that as the oath was not sworn in good faith, similar to under false pretenses which is cause to nullify the oath and citizenship.
johnw

I didn’t know particular details about this subject John, only witnessed a discussion (of which I zoomed out at some point since no plants were involved  :-\. Very odd indeed, plus I don’t understand why the fuss; it’s merely a symbolic act and when coming to Canada everyone is/should be aware of its history (and not only...).


Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: johnstephen29 on April 10, 2016, 04:16:49 PM
Hi Gabriela off the top of my head, Manitoba, British Columbia, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, Alberta, Ontario,  Newfoundland and Saskatchewan(I had to look up this one to get the correct spelling). Maggi I have heard many times in the past people in this country refer to it as Great Britain which is also not right. As to the queen I have to admit I haven't always been a big fan, but the state visit to Ireland changed all that and her speech in Dublin castle blew me away, also her Gaelic was perfect.
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: johnw on April 10, 2016, 04:40:53 PM
You seem to have missed Québec & the Territories north John! :o

Meanwhile you'll be please to hear groups under the auspices of Nova Scotia's Office of Gaelic Affairs got provincial grant money last month to promote the Gaelic culture & language including immersion courses. I think they said a third of Nova Scotians can trace roots back to Islanders and Highlands; my grandparents spoke it well but sadly failed to pass it on thinking it would be a hindrance to progress.

Gabriela - we split a Thimble order with some keeners and the order arrived on Wednesday, looking great and picked up yesterday. Shipping was $1.25 per plant but the prices of the plants were rather scandalous.  BC prices? Guess we should have bought a BC shack 20 years ago - see here - http://www.niagarabuzz.ca/2016/01/30/news/it-costs-2-4-million-to-buy-this-shack-in-vancouver/ (http://www.niagarabuzz.ca/2016/01/30/news/it-costs-2-4-million-to-buy-this-shack-in-vancouver/) rather small garden though.... ???


john
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: johnstephen29 on April 10, 2016, 06:04:24 PM
Hi yes I did miss those, but I didn't do too bad did I?. That's good to hear about Gaelic in Nova Scotia, that would be Scots Gaelic of course. I wish I had paid more attention to my Irish lessons when I was a kid, but I was more interested in hanging around with my mates, though some of it did penetrate to help me get by and understand a few of the scots words.
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: Gabriela on April 10, 2016, 09:21:55 PM
Hi yes I did miss those, but I didn't do too bad did I?. That's good to hear about Gaelic in Nova Scotia, that would be Scots Gaelic of course. I wish I had paid more attention to my Irish lessons when I was a kid, but I was more interested in hanging around with my mates, though some of it did penetrate to help me get by and understand a few of the scots words.

Not at all John! In all fairness you only missed Quebec :) The Northern territories (Northwestern T., Nunanvut and Yukon) are not provinces and under a different type of federal administration.
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: johnstephen29 on April 10, 2016, 11:53:31 PM
Thanks Gabriela, a thousand apologies Quebec for missing you out.
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: johnw on April 11, 2016, 12:27:10 AM
Hi yes I did miss those, but I didn't do too bad did I?.

No not so bad at all unless I were to tell you the square kilometrage of the missed area including the north.

Who can resist?  3.166 million km².  Worse was the missing é second time round.

john ;)
   
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: johnralphcarpenter on April 11, 2016, 11:15:08 AM
Thanks Gabriela, a thousand apologies Quebec for missing you out.
You'll have to say that in French. They have strict language laws.
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: ashley on April 11, 2016, 01:00:51 PM
No not so bad at all unless I were to tell you the square kilometrage of the missed area including the north.
Who can resist?  3.166 million km². 

There really is quite a lot of Canada.  We'll be in Newfoundland this summer, a 4½ hour flight from Dublin, but it would take our son living in Vancouver about 10 hours (with one connection) to join us :)
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: johnw on April 11, 2016, 02:04:03 PM
John - Gabriela and I should be blushing because we both didn't catch the fact you missed Labrador, it's Newfoundland AND Labrador and a mere 294,330 km². A missing accent could land one in the clinker. ;)

Ashley will you do the west coast of Newfoundland up to St. Anthony?  Incredible flora compared to the east coast and highly recommended.  A 7 hour drive from St. John's to Rocky Harbour on the west coast.  Not a tiny island and plan on NO nighttime or very early morning driving, they are everywhere!

john
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: ashley on April 11, 2016, 02:45:21 PM
Well Saint Barbe anyway John, en route (no accents) to Labrador.  We'll see how the time goes. 
I'm less concerned about fender-bending than being eaten alive ;) but it can hardly be much worse than Skye ;D
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: johnstephen29 on April 11, 2016, 05:48:10 PM
Hi Ralph, it's been 25 years since I spoke fluent French, so I'll pass on that, that's a lot of km John, I thought Labrador was just a district of newfoundland that's why i didn't mention it. Have a great holiday Ashley.
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: Gabriela on April 11, 2016, 07:56:20 PM
John - Gabriela and I should be blushing because we both didn't catch the fact you missed Labrador, it's Newfoundland AND Labrador and a mere 294,330 km². A missing accent could land one in the clinker. ;)
john

I am not blushing because - I noticed it was missing, and I also didn’t use the accent on Q on purpose :o I thought John did very well, why point out every little error? We should be more indulgent on Sunday afternoons  :)
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: Gabriela on April 11, 2016, 08:02:25 PM
There really is quite a lot of Canada.  We'll be in Newfoundland this summer, a 4½ hour flight from Dublin, but it would take our son living in Vancouver about 10 hours (with one connection) to join us :)

Ashley –indeed there is a lot of Canada! For someone that spent time in Europe it is even more striking. A trip for one side to the other is akin to flying to Eastern Europe, time and money wise!
I wish you a great time in NF; I didn't make it there yet, but I understand Gros Morne is the place to be! As wild as it goes...

Since we are in the Iris thread - I found a survivor today (we've been 'polar vortexed' lately)


Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: johnstephen29 on April 11, 2016, 09:01:03 PM
Loverly little plant Gabriela.
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: ashley on April 11, 2016, 09:54:19 PM
Thanks John and Gabriela.  Yes we're looking forward to the trip.
Good to see a nice reticulata still in flower 8)
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: johnw on April 12, 2016, 02:36:29 AM
Ashley  - Just wait till you see east coast Labrador - the willows, rhododendron, Diapensias, Vacciniums and Loiseleuria!  Phyllodoce and Cassiope too.   It's like western Nfld. x 1000.

Just a sample from Cape Norman on The Great Northern Peninsula, in massive barren sheets of rock we'd see scenes like this in small depressed areas maybe 2' x 2'.

john

Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: Maggi Young on April 13, 2016, 10:52:52 AM
John's  next posts split off to new topic....
 Cape Norman on The Great Northern Peninsula
This topic has been moved to Travel / Places to Visit .

http://www.srgc.net/forum/index.php?topic=14235.0 (http://www.srgc.net/forum/index.php?topic=14235.0)
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: Alan McMurtrie on April 13, 2016, 04:16:57 PM
I personally often simply think of the whole U.K. as "England."  Yes, I know that's not technically correct.

The catch is what do people normally use.  I like to call The Netherlands "Holland" -- should I actually use "Nederlands."  North and South Holland are of course the bulb growing provinces in The Netherlands.  I think more people would understand "Holland" than "The Netherlands."

Here where I live in Canada, we were in the postal district known as Willowdale.  The area grew in population density and we became the city of North York.  Now we are part of the city of Toronto.  I always told people I'm from Toronto simply because they were/are like to know where that is -- I did that even when we weren't part of the city of Toronto.  It is still correct to use North York or Willowdale.

I tend to think if I tell someone I'm going to England they'll know immediately where I'm headed, where as if I say I'm going to the U.K. they might not know.

Your perspective is different depending on where you are from.



The last of the Reticulatas are blooming here, which means White Caucasus and it's hybrids.

At a friend's house 20 minutes north they are not quite at peak.

Here's a couple of nice ones that are in bloom there.  I plant bulbs there specifically for hybridizing.  It's nice when they are finished here, to still be able to enjoy them there.

03-BL-4
[attachimg=1]

03-JE-1
[attachimg=2]
[attachimg=4]

03-CP-3
[attachimg=3]
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: Maggi Young on April 13, 2016, 05:24:39 PM
A lot of people think of Canadians as Americans - never yet met a Canadian who was happy with that idea!
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: Alan McMurtrie on April 14, 2016, 04:13:45 AM
There is a clear difference.  We say "Eh" and apologize a lot.

Americans know we Canadians live in igloos and use dog sleds to get around.  After all, Canada is a big wilderness -- the great white north.

Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: johnstephen29 on April 14, 2016, 06:05:13 PM
Hi Alan most of what you say is true, but in the uk it's a it different, it's made up of four very different countries, each part has its own culture and language, they are proud of that and rightly so.if you were to say to a person from the highlands of Scotland or Welsh valleys that they were living in England you might get a slap, not that I'm justify violence Maggi, I hasten to add.
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: Maggi Young on April 14, 2016, 06:26:32 PM
Quite so, John - violence is never the answer -  but not being offered any cake with your tea  is fair enough in my book!
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: johnstephen29 on April 14, 2016, 06:43:30 PM
Hi Maggi that is true, but it is nice to have something to chew on while you are drinking your tea. At this very moment I have had a cup of Barry's tea and a slice of homemade fruit soda, heaven.
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: Maggi Young on April 14, 2016, 06:50:04 PM
....and richly deserved, I'm sure! 
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: johnstephen29 on April 14, 2016, 10:36:08 PM
Of course after a hard days work ;D
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: Alan McMurtrie on April 15, 2016, 06:09:19 AM
A lot of history to every country.  ...things that aren't understood by people not living there.
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: johnralphcarpenter on April 15, 2016, 11:22:58 AM
A lot of people in Quebec don't consider themselves to be Canadian.
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: johnstephen29 on April 15, 2016, 04:53:27 PM
Haven't they tried to break away a few times Ralph?
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: Lesley Cox on April 17, 2016, 10:09:38 AM
We in New Zealand think of Canadians as Canadians, not Americans, because we suffer from the same nonsense from many others who think we are Australians. We HATE that!
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: fermi de Sousa on April 17, 2016, 01:47:47 PM
We in New Zealand think of Canadians as Canadians, not Americans, because we suffer from the same nonsense from many others who think we are Australians. We HATE that!
So do we!
 ;D
cheers
fermi
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: David Nicholson on April 17, 2016, 04:01:46 PM
Think what it must be like to be a Yorkshireman and therefor superior to the rest of the world :P
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: johnralphcarpenter on April 17, 2016, 08:44:56 PM
Except in spelling!
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: fermi de Sousa on April 18, 2016, 12:45:46 AM
Except in spelling!
Expecially at speiling!
 ;D
fermi
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: David Nicholson on April 18, 2016, 09:29:30 AM
That wasn't spelling, just a joint malfunction of the keyboard and fingers :D
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: johnralphcarpenter on April 18, 2016, 10:44:18 AM
Brain not involved then?
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: Lesley Cox on April 18, 2016, 11:00:25 AM
My late father knew beyond any doubt or discussion that he - and those like him - were the most superior in all the world. He was white, British and male. I loved him dearly  but on almost every subject, he and I disagreed strongly. ::)
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: Alan McMurtrie on April 19, 2016, 02:02:24 AM
The only special thing about this Reticulata Iris is it's the very last one to bloom -- both this year and last year.

Naturally a hybridizing goal is to come up with something a bit more interesting, as "The Last Retic"

[attachimg=1]
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: Maggi Young on April 19, 2016, 11:03:33 AM
Season extension is a great goal, Alan.
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: Alan McMurtrie on April 21, 2016, 06:19:21 PM
Blooming in a garden 20 minutes north (touch cooler, and a bit of shade) it is one of my favourites: 03-AN-3
[everything else is finished]

[attachimg=1]

[attachimg=2]
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: David Nicholson on April 21, 2016, 07:21:44 PM
Nice one that.
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: olegKon on April 28, 2016, 10:08:07 AM
This is what I received as
1. Iris 'Natasha'
2. Iris histrio
I have doubts about both. Should 'Natasha' be white? Mine is of nice clear light blue colour. The second one doesn't look Iris histrio, does it? What can it be?
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: Lesley Cox on April 28, 2016, 10:34:35 AM
Good evening Oleg,
I don't think your pale iris is 'Natasha.' She is in fact not really white but does have an ice-blue shading with a very slight greenish cast as well but though yours has the blue, it isn't really like that. And the flowers should have a rather more spiky appearance, not so nicely rounded in the falls. I can't find my photo at the moment but someone will have one, I'm sure.

The other could perhaps be 'Clairette' or 'Springtime' but not, I think, histrio. Again, someone should have a good photo. The whiter one is very nice, whatever it is.
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: olegKon on April 28, 2016, 12:13:17 PM
Thank you, Lesley. You have proved my suspicions. The light blue one is rather small, nearly equal in size with Merendera sobolifera seen at the background. It is really cute whatever it is. Now when I get real Natasha I will have two different nice varieties. The second one looks like Clairette. Thanks again. Oleg
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: Lesley Cox on April 28, 2016, 09:35:44 PM
I have found a picture of 'Natasha' (I have it as 'Natascha' but not sure which is correct.) This was taken back in 2011
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: olegKon on April 29, 2016, 12:07:08 PM
Thank you, Lesley. It is exactly what I had in the picture when I was buying it. But I like my variety a lot and hope it will be stable for me
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: Alan McMurtrie on April 30, 2016, 10:17:40 PM
Natascha is the correct spelling
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: fermi de Sousa on July 16, 2016, 10:31:41 AM
Our first retic is one of Alan's s x d hybrids: 'Dance On';
sadly I was not the first to find it >:( - it is now surrounded by blue pellets!
cheers
fermi
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: Lesley Cox on July 18, 2016, 04:44:20 AM
HOW DID YOU GET THAT ?????? ??????? ??? ??? ??? ??? ???
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: fermi de Sousa on July 18, 2016, 05:28:21 AM
HOW DID YOU GET THAT ?????? ??????? ??? ??? ??? ??? ???
I have ways and means ;D ;D ;D
Or rasther I did :(
He longer has a quarantine house :'(
cheers
fermi
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: fermi de Sousa on August 12, 2016, 11:27:27 AM
More "traditional" hybrids (also suffering from slug attack):
'George'
'Alida'
'J.S. Dijt'
cheers
fermi
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: Alan McMurtrie on August 30, 2016, 04:36:45 AM
In case you're interested, I've just updated my website:  www.Reticulatas.com (http://www.Reticulatas.com)

[attachimg=1]
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: Maggi Young on August 30, 2016, 12:16:15 PM
Thanks Alan - good to know !
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: Mini bulb lover on December 02, 2016, 07:08:34 AM
I am growing some of Alan McMurtrie's mixed bee pollinated Iris reticulatas from seed, sown in autumn 2013 (May). I've been growing them in pots which I know isn't ideal but until I have my new garden established I don't have any other choice. This spring has been very cool here in Melbourne. We usually start getting some 30(+) degree (Celsius) days from mid-spring but not this year. 1 December is the start of our summer and I still have green retic leaves (and a lot of other bulb species too)! I decided to lift all the retic bulbs because the chance of hot weather arriving at any time might cause problems as the soil is still moist. As I was lifting the bulbs I noticed one leaf had formed a loop just above the bulb. As I've never lifted them in the green before I don't know if this is common. I guess it hit an obstacle on the way up?

I don't know if it's because of the long cool spring but some of these seed-raised bulbs are quite large now - they'll definitely flower next year. I'll be excited to see what comes up!
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: Alan McMurtrie on December 03, 2016, 08:22:33 PM
Yes, a long cool Spring can really help.  It allows a longer growing period.  I've been told in Holland an extra growing week for Tulips, can get bulbs up to the next size (i.e. add one cm to the diameter)

In the case of Reticulata Iris, I find bulbs will bloom if they are 1 cm in diameter

Here's a picture of my hybrids being covered with soil in Holland
[attachimg=1]

2011 seedlings have all been replanted and spaced out
"Something Wonderful is Going to Happen"
[attachimg=2]

A lot of work goes into the replanting, and shifting bulbs around where they are too crowded.
Under the ground strips of aluminum separate out the different clones
[attachimg=5]

Polyploid bulbs of Lilac Beauty (03-AN-3).  The pair in the middle are a bulb that bloomed this year.  The bulbs on either side are 11mm and should bloom next Spring
Because of how coarse the tunic on the left is, I wonder if it is 16n? (hexadeciploid)
[Going to tetraploid will allow different Reticulata groups to be crossed, and most importantly, maintain fertility]
[attachimg=3]

Lilac Beauty (03-AN-3)
[attachimg=4]

Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: Alan McMurtrie on December 03, 2016, 08:36:00 PM
I'm on a raised platform so I don't trample the soil. A tarp is used overnight so squirrels don't dig in the area at day break (someone in the area supplies them with peanuts). After I'm finished a net is put down along with a layer of straw as deterrent against animals digging. The straw also keeps the ground frozen if there is a warm spell in the middle of Winter. Otherwise, if seeds / seedlings start into growth, a sudden cold snap will kill them -- their cell sap doesn't have the same anti-freeze capability that it did when they were dormant
[Bulbs several inches deep are buffered from temperature swings]
[attachimg=1]

[attachimg=2]
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: Mini bulb lover on December 04, 2016, 02:39:37 AM
Thanks Alan for the behind the scenes photos and information. It’s great to see your hard work pay off with lovelies like Lilac Beauty!


Here are some of my seed raised bulbs lifted this year (04-JB). I could tell before measuring them that they were flowering size.  ;D
I didn’t expect such a large size from bulbs grown in pots. The pots were placed in a polystyrene box with shade cloth lying inside the bottom and a small layer of sand on top of that. While we had a cool spring we also had a very windy spring which quickly dried the soil of other pots not in the polystyrene + sand boxes.

[attachimg=1]
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: Alan McMurtrie on December 04, 2016, 04:56:06 AM
It's been quite an uphill battle getting my hybrids to market.  Seeing the amazing new colours and patterns is what makes it all worthwhile.  It's an expensive hobby.  The fun is wondering "where can I go from here."  And I'm taking it to a whole new level so-to-speak, by working with ployploids.  Nothing is guaranteed, but it seems the smart was to go; or at least a smart thing to explore and see where it takes me.


Excellent looking bulbs!

Wouldn't hurt to keep them in the same containers.  After they bloom you can keep some material of each in containers, and try some out in the garden

04-JB is 95-O-1 x bee      95-O is I. reticulata hort. x I. reticulata var. Tibilisi [from Janis Ruksans]
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: Mini bulb lover on December 04, 2016, 07:02:09 AM
Thanks Alan, I'll try that. 

I hope you’re working on a book about Reticulate Iris and your years of work on them…. No pressure. ;)
(I hope the blood doesn’t drain from your face on reading such a suggestion).


Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: Alan McMurtrie on December 04, 2016, 05:29:05 PM
It's a Smile.  I'm not sure how good a job I could do.  I keep learning.  ...and per se, I don't have time (even though I'm supposedly retired).  To a degree I might ask, would such a book make a difference?  I do have my website as an outlet for showing off my work; but that only goes so far.  Never, say never; but its unlikely.  Ideally I would want to include substantive material from original sources.  Its nice to have references, but most people can not access them.  One of those is: De Periodieke Ontwikkeling Van Iris Reticulata (The Periodical Development Of Iris Reticulata) by Ida Luyten; which I do have.  William van Eeden's hybrid Ida was named after Ida Luyten.

The 2016 British Iris Society Year Book will have a 12 page article (my 8.5 x 11 inch pages) -- which adds to my 6 previous BIS articles (the last one was in 2004) [see the Articles page on my website -- the 2016 one will be added once the Year Book is published].  An article on polyploids is planned for the 2017 BIS Year Book.  It will be about 10 pages [I already have 7] (I'm just starting to see results.  Part of the article will talk about why I'm doing the work).  I'm working on an outline for an article about Reticulata Iris - Genetics.  Whether it will be published I'm not sure.  The genetics aspect is various colour and pattern breaks.  I don't know that I'll ever be able to explain them, but I can at least point them out in pictures, and talk about the complexity of pulling out recessive characteristics.  At some point an article could be written about the species.  I'm looking into the possibility of other 2n=18 species and have several leads.  Although the species Iris reticulata is 2n=20, because for example the Çat Retic doesn't have any physical difference from a typical Retic, other than it produces bulblets like danfordiae & sophenesis, it may just be the Çat Retic is a variety of Iris reticulata with a different chromosome count, as apparently is the case with Crocus [a given species having different chromosome counts].  In my mind a slight physical difference does not justify calling a plant a new species.  I consider it part of the variability of that species.  It may be that one valley has plants with that slight variation compared to plants from another valley.  The fact leaves of the Çat are below the flower, simply means it's an early bloomer.

I believe the somewhat recently described Reticulata species Iris kopetdagensis should really be called Iris reticulata var. Kopet Dag (from the Kopet Dag / Kopet Dagh mountains in Iran).

In the back of my mind I wonder if Iris histrio is really just a form of Iris reticulata, though I don't know of any hybrids between the two.  In my limited tries I haven't been successful at creating hybrids.  Histrio's seed pods are below the ground.  Some forms of Iris reticulata have tall seed pods, other are closer to the ground, and I believe can occasionally be part way into the ground.  A form from the wide with tall seed pods shouldn't be given its own species name

I don't consider pollen colour to be a defining characteristic.  Some forms of Iris reticulata I collected in Turkey had olive-coloured pollen.

Is Iris sophenensis really Iris reticulata var. sophenensis?  This is the name Foster recorded in Garden Chronicles 1885.  Certainly it is NOT Iris histrioides var. sophenensis.

For the North American Rock Garden Society I may at some point write 'The Story of Reticulata Iris Eye Catcher.'

There's a story to be told about my working with Dutch bulb growers, but I don't know that it will be written.

I haven't yet written for SRGC, and my one article to-date in The Alpine Gardener was back in 2003
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: Maggi Young on December 04, 2016, 05:57:34 PM
Quote
I haven't yet written for SRGC

I'm sure Anton Edwards would be pleased to hear from you, Alan! [
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: Mini bulb lover on December 05, 2016, 02:57:39 AM
I'm not sure how good a job I could do. 

Well Alan, I think you'd do a pretty good job. If you ever get the time or inclination I'll be first in line to get a copy. You already have a start with all the information on your website; the articles already created and the beautiful photos. While it's good to find information on the internet, it's also good to sit down and be lost in a book on a topic that you love.
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: Gail on December 05, 2016, 07:36:01 PM
While it's good to find information on the internet, it's also good to sit down and be lost in a book on a topic that you love.
Seconded!
I'm fascinated with your work with these beautiful plants and definitely would buy the book!
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: Alan McMurtrie on December 08, 2016, 04:39:56 AM
Feb 14-15, 2017 I'll be at the RHS Early Spring Plant Fair in London, England.  Look for me around the Jacques Amand stand.

I hope to have a couple of hybrids that haven't been on display before (possibly they'll get up to Dunblane, Scotland as well)

Likely I'll be giving a talk.  In part it will cover developments over the past year

Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: Maggi Young on December 08, 2016, 01:12:50 PM
There is an article by Alan, translated  by Luc Gilgemyn and Wim Boens,  in the current issue of "Rotsplantenforum" the quarterly  journal of the VRV  - the Flemish Rock Garden Club - see link in moving  banner at top of  every forum page to contact   VRV.
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: Gail on December 09, 2016, 09:53:07 PM
Feb 14-15, 2017 I'll be at the RHS Early Spring Plant Fair in London, England.  Look for me around the Jacques Amand stand.

I hope to have a couple of hybrids that haven't been on display before (possibly they'll get up to Dunblane, Scotland as well)

Likely I'll be giving a talk.  In part it will cover developments over the past year

Do let us know which day you'll be talking as soon as you know - will need to book annual leave...
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: art600 on December 28, 2016, 04:52:32 PM
Flowering now:-

I believe the first is from Alan McMurtri

Second is an Iranian reticulate iris
Title: Re: Reticulate Iris - 2016
Post by: Maggi Young on December 28, 2016, 05:15:54 PM
How lovely for the end of the year - none up here.
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