IRISES: The Bulletin of the AIS - Fall 2021 Edition

 By Andi Rivarola

A warm welcome to those who are seeing IRISES, the Bulletin of The American Iris Society for the first time. If you are a member of The American Iris Society I hope you enjoy this new issue.

The Fall 2021 issue of the AIS Bulletin already available online, accessible via the Emembers section of the AIS website. The print copy has been mailed via the U.S. Post Office. On the cover, Dykes Medal Winner, 'Daring Deception' pictured below, by Thomas Johnson (2012 TB), and also enclosed below, co-winner, Dykes Medal Winner, Reckless Abandon' by Keith Keppel (2010 TB).

Note: to access this area of the website you must have a current AIS Emembership. (AIS Emembership is separate from the normal AIS membership.) Please see the Electronic Membership Information area of the AIS website for more details.

Enjoy the images of all the AIS 2021 Award Winners on pages 2 to 5.

Two president messages on this issue: on page 10, outgoing president Jody Nolin says adieu to us. And, on page 11, incoming president Andi Rivarola says, "How did it come to this"?

We have a long list go members who have gone too soon on Remembering Friends on pages 12 through 15.

Be sure to read through the National Convention 2022 pages starting on page 20 and detailed information on pages 21 through 24.

An invitation to the 2022 Siberian/Species Iris Convention on page 26, and registration form on page 27.

Section Happenings start on page 28 and ends on page 31.

A delightful article called Bulbous Iris: More Colors for your Garden is on pages 32 — 37. 

Please read Iris Botany and Geography by Sylvain Ruaud, a reprint from this very blog on pages 49 — 52.

The upcoming Ackerman Youth Essay Contest 2022 is announced on page 53.

And lastly, the entire list of AIS 2021 Award Winners is on pages 54 — 62.

More beautiful pictures on the AIS Award Winners are on pages 62 — 67.

There's a lot more to see and read in this edition of IRISES, either in digital or print formats.

Not a member of The American Iris Society? Please see our website for information about becoming one: http://irises.org/

Happy Gardening!

Newly Published: BEARDLESS IRISES, A Plant For Every Garden Situation

By Andi Rivarola

We iris lovers take for granted the huge amount of information that is available online, and because there are so many people sharing their love for iris with photographs, blogs, and plainly just posts on Facebook, we forget that there are those in the iris community that are really experts in the field.

I didn’t know anything about Kevin Vaughn just a few months ago, and didn’t think of him as an expert when I first met him. In fact I thought of him as another iris fan with an amazing taste for garden design, but after reading all the details in his book I realized that the love for irises runs deeply than that for him.

Today I believe that he has not only great advice to give on how to grow irises successfully, but also offers a multitude of information that makes reading his new book a joy. 

During the recent National Convention of The American Iris Society, held in Portland, Oregon, attendees were able to experience the beauty of Kevin Vaughn’s garden twice. Once during the pre-convention (optional) tour, and then as part of the Siberian & Species Convention held after the regular convention.  It was during these two sessions that I had the pleasure to meet Kevin Vaughn and enjoy his friendly demeanor, and also his knowledge of irises.

Cover photo provided by Kevin Vaughn

One feature of the Portland convention that was really different from other conventions is that many of the irises were blooming at the same time. Call it "Global Warming," or simply, "the weather." Normally, one would not see this, but having all the different irises blooming at the same time made it an extraordinary experience. The Vaughn garden had a huge variety of iris types, Louisiana, Spuria, Siberian, median and other irises, several of which he's also hybridizing. There was a particular combination towards the back of the property that really caught my attention: a fantastic display with a gorgeous bright yellow i. pseudacorus next to a deep purple Siberian iris seedling. Both reaching five feet tall and blooming in full glory. What a sight! (I'm still to post the many photos of this garden, stay tuned). 

Pacific Coast iris 'Caught in the Wind' (Joseph Ghio, R. 2012)

Even though Kevin grows many bearded and non-bearded irises, this book focuses on everything that is fascinating about the latter. 

So why write about beardless irises? Kevin says,”Compared to their bearded iris cousins, the beardless irises have remained a secret to many gardeners…” 

With this gorgeous book, suddenly a wide variety of non-bearded iris types are introduced in a way that is easy to understand, with a multitude of photographs to tempt the unsuspecting reader to take a chance; perhaps grow a few of them.

Louisiana iris 'Aqua Velva' (Kevin Vaughn, R. 2014)

You will also find answers to the following questions:

"What are beardless irises?"

"What is the purpose of the beard on bearded irises, and how do beardless irises do without them?"

Pacific Coast Native iris 'Moderator' (Joseph Ghio, R. 2011)

If you don't grow beardless irises in your garden at this time, after reading this book you may just start doing so. Some of the sections on each chapter such as, "Garden Use and Culture," Pests and Diseases," and Kevin's own "Favorites," will help you make decisions about where to start. 

Vaughn Seedling 40-chromosome Siberian iris seedling 

I hope you also start keeping an eye on Kevin Vaughn's work as I have, as many of the iris seedlings in his garden show much promise. I have started to add some of his Spuria irises to my wish list, and one of the first ones is a child of 'Adriatic Blue' called 'Adriatic Memories,' that is just amazing. Can't wait to see it growing in my own little garden.

Vaughn wide-ruffled Spuria iris seedling

Enjoy this preview of pictures provided by the author, and let me assure you that there are many more in the book. Besides being a great writer, Kevin Vaughn is a great photographer and hybridizer. Here's the list of iris varieties covered in the book:

Siberian

Louisiana

Spuria

Species

Species-X

Pacific Coast Natives

"BEARDLESS IRISES, A Plant For Every Garden Situation" is available via Amazon.com 

IRISES, the Bulletin of the AIS - Spring 2014 Edition

By Andi Rivarola

"Let us be grateful to people who make us happy; they are the charming gardeners who make our souls blossom."                                  Marcel Proust

I just read the above quote and had to share it with all of you, not just because it made me smile when I read it, but also because it expresses such joyous feeling. Thank you gardeners, flower lovers, iris lovers who follow the news we report from The American Iris Society and for all your contributions in the many ways that you express yourselves.

I was just given the message, IRISES is available online. In fact, why I don't share the entire message:

The Spring 2014 issue of the AIS Bulletin is now available for online viewing within the Emembers section of the AIS website.

Note: to access this area you must have a current AIS Emembership. AIS Emembership is separate from the normal AIS membership. Please see the Electronic Membership Information area of the AIS website for more details.

This leaves no doubt as how to access this and other issues online. For those receiving the printed version, it's on its way to you, and you should receive it soon.

Kathleen Sonntag, our new AIS IRISES Editor clarifies something new right off the bat: issues are now named after each season. This issue is called Spring 2014, instead of being named after a month. I know, we have changed this many times before, but in fact to name each issue after a season sounds very interesting and appealing, doesn't it?

So, welcome to the Spring 2014 edition of IRISES, the Bulletin of The American Iris Society. Hope you will enjoy several of the articles on this extensive issue:

• Photographing Iris in Complete Focus, a great guide loaded with tips by Ken Walker.
• The 2014 AIS Photo Contest is formally announced, by Janet Smith.
• Don't miss the fantastic picture of iris Winogradowii, by Dr. Radionenko, on page 9.
• The current Youth Views article presents a very enthusiastic youth group from the Santa Rosa Iris Society; and read about two Regions which groups account for more than 100 children involved. Wow.
• Section Happenings keep us appraised of the activities at The Dwarf Iris Society, the Historic Iris Preservation Society (HIPS), The Median Iris Society, and the Spuria Iris Society. 
• The Novelty Iris Society, oh wait, you don't know about this. You need to read the news on page 17.
• Preserving Small, Historic Irises, by Charlie Carver.
• Rebloom Looks For New Avenues, by Mike Lockatell.

And, there's so much for to this issue, and I am happy to let you discover the rest of the articles. I know you will find them interesting. Remember that if you are an emember you can access this issue online NOW.

For those new to The American Iris Society, as a member you receive the printed quarterly edition of IRISES via mail, or if you are an e-member, then you will be able to read the entire publication online. The latter is a very convenient option for overseas iris enthusiasts. For more information, please go to our website's membership information section.  

IRISES, the Bulletin of the AIS - January/February 2014 Edition

By Andi Rivarola

Apologies for the lateness of this review; we plan, and plan some more, and then one gets a cold. I don’t know about you, but all I can do when I get a cold is... rest, do nothing, and then rest some more. So, even though I had everything necessary to share this post with you about the new issue of IRISES, well it just did not happen.

It is with much sadness that we announce the passing of ex-AIS President Clarence E. Mahan, but with the sadness comes the joy of knowing that the winter edition of IRISES has been dedicated to his memory. A section called “Remembering Clarence Everett Mahan” starts with a touching obituary by AIS’s President, Jim Morris; and it ends with the testimonials of several friends from around the world that you will find to be both enlightening and heartwarming. I didn't know Mr. Mahan well, and only had brief communications via Facebook (yes, we were FB friends) and email. Once, he even wrote to tell me how brave I was to face the social media challenges of the society. I appreciated his gentle compliment

Some of the great topics on this issue:

Riley Probst, the AIS Symposium Chair, gives us a historic review of the AIS Tall Bearded Iris Symposium. Who doesn't want to know how the TOP 100 Tall Bearded Irises list got started, and what are the current stats on TBs around the country? A very educational read.

Going to Déjà vu Dallas 2014? Hope that you are, but even if you are not please read Bonnie Nichols formal invitation to the National Convention. Located in the Dallas area and the site of the 2013 Convention, the gardens are interesting and well presented with beautiful irises, so we're wishing for a wonderful repeat. A convention registration form and the convention schedule are also included. For updates and more information about the Convention visit their website at: http://www.irises-dallas.org

If you don’t know Robert Piątek you will have a change to meet him on an article called, Iris Hybridizer and Author from Poland. From his early beginnings as a forester in the District Zawadzkie National Forest, Poland, to his current work hybridizing irises, you will be enchanted to make his acquaintance even if on paper. Don’t miss the beautiful iris pictures that accompany his introduction to the American public. 

A fascinating write up about little irises may also catch your attention. The article called “Small is Beautiful” by Charlie Carver from Orcas Island, Washington.

Don't miss The Winners of the 2013 AIS Photo Contest will also surprise you with their quality, and their display size, which this year is extra large. Check them out and you’ll know what I mean. 

Other wonderful articles include:

• The 2013 Honorary Awards Recipients
• Herbicide Studies: Weed Control in Irises, by John E. Kaufmann
• New Emeritus Judges Announced
• AIS Display Gardens: What are they? By Bob Pries
• Iris Color Terminology: Luminatas, by our own Rene Fraser
• Winners of the 2013 AIS Photo Contest
• Sections Happenings, by Gary White
• And much, much more…

For those new to The American Iris Society, as a member you receive the printed quarterly edition of IRISES via mail, or if you are an e-member, then you will be able to read the entire publication online. The latter is a very convenient option for overseas iris enthusiasts. For more information, please go to our website's membership information section.  

(The printed edition is in the hands of the Post Office, some members included myself have already received it; the e-version is ready for view at its normal location online.) 

SIGNA Newsletter Winter Issue

By Andi Rivarola

Here's a recap of SIGNA's Newsletter Winter Edition. 

As you can see from its cover below, Juno irises are featured in detail, and the article crafted by Panayoti Kelaidis from Colorado, is as complete as they come. With well over fifty species in its section, Junos come in all sorts of colors and tones, and with an average height of between 6 and 12 inches. I added Junos to the list of irises I want to grow and learn about. If you have not heard about Juno irises, where they can grow successfully, and most importantly how to grow them, then I hope you get to read this article.

SIGNA (Species Iris Group of North America) Newsletter

There's also a wonderful update about Iris ruthenica, on the article called Irises from Russia, by Nina Alexeeva. This beautiful medium size iris can be found in nature in Central Europe and Central Asia all the way to Mongolia and China. Despite its large habitat many gardeners in these areas are still learning about the potential of this violaceous beauty. A wonderful read.

With humor as a sizable and necessary part of the irisarian's experience, our own World of Irises blogger, Griff Crump gives us a great opportunity to laugh about some of the tricky and interesting iris names we may encounter. The article is called: "Humor -- Those Puzzling Iris Names."

Dennis Kramb gives a detailed report on the Siberian and Species iris Convention held in 2013 that you won't want to miss.

A favorite iris variety that I have yet to grow is covered in detailed on an article with fantastic images to enjoy. I'm talking about beautiful irises dichotoma and domestica, and their child named Iris x norrisii (ex-pardancanda). The article is "Identity Crisis" by another of our wonderful World of Irises blogger, experienced iris grower -- and gardener extraordinaire -- Jim Murrain.

Lastly, I know SIGNA leaders would want me to mention that the SEED EXCHANGE is ready and open to receive your orders. If you don't know about the seed exchange, may I direct your attention to SIGNA's website: http://www.signa.org where you can find more information about obtaining seeds of iris species and other hybrids, and also to browse through a list of iris types available. Although you have to be a SIGNA member to order seeds, you can become a member online at the same time as you order seeds.

SIGNA newsletters are a pleasure to read, and I hope you too find them a great learning tool while immersing yourself in the world of iris species.

IRISES, the Bulletin of the AIS - October/November 2013 Edition

By Andi Rivarola

Here's another wonderful issue of IRISES, the Bulletin of the American Iris Society that will be arriving at your doorsteps soon. 

As you can see from the cover, it is gorgeous and bright yellow, 'That's All Folks,' by hybridizer Bill Mariott, the tall bearded iris winner of the 2013 Dykes Medal. 

Here's a review of what you'll see in this issue:

Bonnie Nichols of the Dallas Iris Society makes a good case for a visit (or second visit for some of us) to the Dallas Area for an encore presentation of the National Convention in that area called, Déjà vu Dallas 2014! Be sure to read her wonderful detailed review of the gardens that will again make for a great Convention. For updates and more information about the Convention visit their website at: http://www.irises-dallas.org

Also, you will find the following information:

• In the Culturally Speaking section, don't miss Transplanting and Replanting Irises
• 2013 Award Winners, a full list of all winners for this year
• A sad adieu note from former IRISES Editor Kelly D. Norris
• In Standards & Falls, horticulturalists pick their favorite irises
• A short article on Endangered Iris Populations
• AIS member from Wisconsin Patricia Del Negro writes for In Your Backyard
• Delightful pictures of the Louisiana Iris Convention 2013
• The President's Message by Jim Morris, including an introduction of IRISES' new Editor
• Iris4U Germany branch introduced by Jennifer Dreyer
• Youth Views by Cheryl Deaton
• And much more

For those new to The American Iris Society, as a member you receive the printed quarterly edition of IRISES via mail, or if you are an e-member, then you will be able to read the entire publication online. The latter is a very convenient option for overseas iris enthusiasts. For more information, please go to our website's membership information section.  

(The printed edition is in the hands of the Post Office, the e-version is ready for view at its normal location online.) 

IRISES, the Bulletin of the AIS - July/August 2013 Edition

By Andi Rivarola

Yet another issue of IRISES, the Bulletin of the American Iris Society, has been completed, and will be arriving at your doorsteps soon. If you are like me, you will probably read this issue cover to cover within twenty four hours. One of my favorite irises (even though they don't grow very well in my area) Siberians, are featured in this issue, on the cover and in a few articles, one of which is about the Siberian Iris Convention held earlier in the year.

Several of the articles caught my attention, including:

The article by our own blogger, Mike Unser, writing on Jim Gilbson's plicatas for the featured article "My Favorite Irises."

Another favorite article this time is about the "Reverchon Park and The Iris Bowl" in Dallas, TX, a park once referred to as the "Central Park" of the Texas park system. Steve Houser wrote a fascinating article that follows into the same lines of a digital program many of us enjoyed during the Opening Banquet of The American Iris Society Convention held earlier in Dallas, TX this year. 

An in-depth article about the use of herbicides sounds very interesting, and I will need to go back to it to read all the facts and interesting findings. It's called, "Herbicide Studies for Weed Control in Irises," by John Kaufman. 

Also, you will find information about:

• The just-announced 2016 Annual Convention to be held in Newark, NJ.
• A Call to Rebuild the Beardless Iris Collection at The Presby
• News & Notes, the new monthly E-Newsletter for Members of the AIS
• Premio Firenze, or the International Iris Competition Awards announcement
• A complete recap of the 2014 Dallas Convention garden visits, you don't want to miss it
• A very "nice" President's Message
• The always complete report for Youth Views, by Cheryl Deaton
• And so, so much more

For those new to The American Iris Society, as a member you receive the printed edition of IRISES, or if you are an e-member, then you will be able to read the entire publication online. The latter is a very convenient option for overseas iris enthusiasts. For more information, please go to our website's membership information section.  Printed editions are in the hands of the Post Office, the e-version is ready for view at its normal location online. 

IRISES, the Bulletin of the AIS - April/May 2013 Edition

By Andi Rivarola

Whether you can grow them or even if you have never seen MDBs (Miniature Dwarf Bearded irises) in person, you will enjoy the beautiful cover selected for the current issue of "IRISES, the Bulletin of The American Iris Society." It has a gorgeous photograph of a 1993 MDB by Ben Hager called, 'Dainty Morse,' a lovely little thing, which will move you with its beauty and elegance.

Be it because it's the spring issue, or just because, this edition is loaded with fascinating articles and if you're like me you won't be able to put this edition down until you have read it throughout. 

Some of the wonderful articles included are:

Saving Your Next Iris Show, by Jerry Wilhoit

With a strong recommendation by Jerry: if weather changes is getting you down, grow Louisiana irises.

Support Your Local Iris Show, by Cindy Rust

Rebloom's Past is Its Future, by Mike Lockatell

Portrait of Juno Irises, by Panayoti Kelaidis

Bloom Seasons in Tall Bearded Irises, by Jim Hedgecock

Tending Tiny Irises, by both Kelly Norris and Bob Pries

My Favorites Irises, (a regular featured section) by Anita Moran

And last but no least, a featured article with all the Winners of the AIS 2012 Photo Contest

For those new to The American Iris Society, as a member you will receive the printed edition of IRISES, or if you are an e-member, then you will be able to read the entire publication online. The latter is a very convenient option for overseas iris enthusiasts. For more information, please go to our website's membership information section.  Printed editions are in the hands of the Post Office, the e-version is ready for view at its normal location online. 

IRISES, the Bulletin of the AIS - Jan/Feb 2013 Edition

By Andi Rivarola

For those of us who do not grow Reticulata iris, this new edition of IRISES, the Bulletin of The American Iris Society, may prove to be the turning point. I hope you will be as impressed as I was with the images and the article by Alan McMurtrie from Ontario, Canada. Mr. McMurtrie was awarded the British Iris Society's Foster Memorial Plaque for his work on Reticulata iris. His third article for our bulletin is Reticulata Iris: The Journey Continues.

IRISES is on its way to you right now, and hopefully it won't be long before you enjoy all of the wonderful articles in this great issue. The electronic edition is already available for those who subscribe to e-membership.

The issue includes a wonderful introduction by The American Iris Society's new President Jim Morris from Missouri, and IRISES Editor Kelly D. Norris gives a ton of fascinating information about news and information of the Society.

Other interesting articles include:

Whither MDBs irises and Pumilas? By Elm Jensen

Germination of Bearded Iris Seeds, by Bob Hollingsworth

Aphylla Genes in my Breeding Program, by Loic Tasquier

Announcing "News & Notes," by Robert Pries

The Sterling Project, by Greg Hodgkinson

The Care and Feeding of Rock Gardens, by Richard C. Richards

The Tall Bearded Symposium for 2012

and so much more.

For those new to The American Iris Society, as a member you may choose to receive the printed edition of IRISES, or you can become an e-member and read the entire publication online. The latter is a very convenient option for overseas iris enthusiasts. For more information, please go to our website's membership information section. 

IRISES article: Graeme Grosvernor's 40th Year Hybridizing

By Andi Rivarola

This is a snapshot of an article published by IRISES, the Bulletin of The American Iris Society, written by John Taylor, on the great Australian hybridizer Graeme Grosvernor.

The October/November 2012 issue of IRISES is excellent, and there are many articles which I am sure you would like very much. For me, this one made an impression, and I hope that you have a chance to read it.  There you will see many more pictures and get the full story.

Mr. Grosvernor is celebrating his 40th year of hybridizing, and in my view, he is the epitome of a dedicated hybridizer.  He tells Mr. Taylor that he knows the complete pedigree and breeding lines of the various irises he works with, and counts as his own preferences for hybridizing purposes the irises of other great hybridizers such as fellow Australian Barry Blyth.  Other favorites include Keith Keppel, Joe Ghio, Paul Black, Tom Johnson and Fred Kerr, outstanding hybridizers here in the US.

Mr. Grosvernor's Garden

Mr. Taylor recounts that the many successes and failures that plagued Mr. Grosvernor would be recognized by many hybridizers and gardeners immediately. Working in the garden often depends on acknowledging that the results will be in the hands and grace of Mother Nature.  Mr. Grosvernor says "nature will decide when a particular flower will bloom."

Mr. Grosvernor is still hybridizing, and recently produced over 10,000 seeds to be planted. He has interests in bicolors, plicatas, amoenas, neglectas and selfs.

Seedling I6-1

As of 2012 Mr. Grosvernor has developed lines in white, blue, pink, apricot, black, yellow and red.  Self colors are a major part of his work. One of his favorite lines has been those developed by using 'Rustle of Spring' as a parent, from which 'Rusty Taylor' (2011/12) was created.

'Rusty Taylor' (2011/12)

I hope this gives you an idea of what you will see if you take a look at the full article. I was impressed by the level of detail Mr. Grosvernor was able to share, and how systematic he is in his work.  In the future, young hybridizers will be able to build on the fantastic work of current hybridizers like Graeme Grosvernor.

AIS members receive (digitally or in print) the quarterly publication, IRISES: the Bulletin of the American Iris Society. Each issue of IRISES provides approximately 65 pages of fresh information on iris culture, an array of color photographs of both old and new irises, and an advertising directory of commercial iris growers located throughout the United States.

For more information on Membership with Society please follow the this link: http://irises.org/About_AIS/Membership_Info/AIS_Membership.html

2013 Iris Calendar

By Andi Rivarola

The 28th calendar of The American Iris Society celebrates the great diversity of both people and plants within the iris world.

If you are looking for "something iris" to give your loved ones this year as a holiday gift, for a year filled with inspiration, we recommend the 2013 IRISES Calendar -- available now on the AIS Storefront.

Capital and 'Sea Power
Photo by Saiphon Simonca, Herndon, VA

Calendar information:

Price is $7.00 plus S&H (USA $2.00, Canada $3.00, International $5.00). Pack of 10 for $50.00 plus S&H (USA $5.00, Canada $9.00, International $18.00). S&H is in addition to item price. Affiliates and iris clubs, please visit the Storefront online for more information.

Orders are to be sent to: 

AIS Storefront, John & Kay Ludi, 

PO Box 956, Sandy, Oregon 97055. 

Email AISStore@irises.org  

Phone 503-826-8808. 

Payment can be by check, money order or credit card (VISA or Mastercard only). Minimum credit card order - $10.00.

Also, visit the the Storefront online at:

http://irises.org/Member_Services/AIS_Storefront.html

Spuria News -- Summer 2012

By Andi Rivarola

Presenting the latest edition of Spuria News, the Newsletter of the Spuria Iris Society, published twice a year and available to Spuria Society members.

Here are few of the topics on this edition:

2012 Eric Nies Medal Winner, and Other Awards
Spuria Fundraiser for 2012
This, That and a Few Other Things, by Brad Kasperek
Which Comes First: The Flower or The Garden Plant, by Brad Kasperek
A Blast From The Past, by Darol Jurn
Missouri Rambling, by President Jim Hedgecock
2012 Spuria Introductions (pictures included)
News About a New Digital Program
2016 Spuria Iris Society Mini-Convention
2012 Popularity Poll
Paypal in Our Midst

And much, much more.

For information about membership with the Spuria Iris Society, please visit Society's website.

(SPU) Spuria Irises

Spurias are tall (2 to 5 feet in height) and elegant, and have very attractive foliage. The shape of the bloom often suggests orchids and the colors range from white and yellow through blue, wine and brown, often with bright yellow signals. This horticultural class is equivalent to the botanical Series Spuriae. The highest award is the Eric Nies Medal.

IRISES, the Bulletin of the AIS - July 2012 Edition

By Andi Rivarola

I hope you enjoy reading IRISES, the Bulletin of The American Iris Society, as much as I do. Here's the beautiful cover of the July edition: a pond surrounded by Japanese irises. What else can one ask for in this world? Isn't it just heavenly?

There are several sections of IRISES that caught my attention, and here are just a few of them to give you a taste of what's coming (via mail in a couple of weeks, or available now if you are subscribed to the Electronic Edition).

There is an awesome article called "How to Avoid Volunteering (or Being Volunteered)" by none other than Mr. Entertainment himself, winner of the AIS 2012 President's Cup (best in Region at a AIS Convention), California hybridizer Richard Richards.  You can rest assured that his article will take you to iris realms you've never been to before.

AIS Marketing & Committee Co-Chair Bob Pries writes "We Are Growing Again," about the latest membership growth experienced by our organization.

The always-informative columns, "Sections Happenings" by Jim Morris, and "Youth Views" by Cheryl Deaton. 

Bonnie Nichols writes a wonderful and tempting invitation to the 2013 Dallas National Convention, as well as she should, since she's the gracious Chairwoman.

The writer of Contemporary Views, Perry Dyer, discusses an interesting topic, "The Backyard Hybridizer."

And finally, Pat McNeal shares the last of her tips on "Selling Irises at the Farmers' Market."

There is much more in this edition of IRISES. I hope that this peek at the titles and the names of our contributors heightens your anticipation.  

For those new to the American Iris Society, you may choose to receive the printed edition of IRISES, or you can become an e-member and read the entire publication online. For more information, please go to our website's membership information section. 

A Guide to Bearded Irises -- By Kelly D. Norris

Please join me while I congratulate our friend and colleague, the Editor of The American Iris Society's quarterly magazine, IRISES, Kelly D. Norris.

Kelly is in the final stages, and almost ready to publish his book, "A Guide To Bearded Irises," and had a few copies available for us to enjoy, acquire and take home with us during the recent National Convention of The American Iris Society, held in Ontario, CA. Although the actual publishing date is set for May 23rd, we were very happy to take home this precious book earlier than anticipated. We took part of a formal reception that we all enjoyed (photos below).

Writing personal dedications

It was very inspiring to see (experience, is really a better word) Kelly in this fashion. I felt like a father who has recently seen his son graduate. So proud of him.

It is something special, when someone from "the iris family" turns a corner and achieves a moment like this. I wish you much success Kelly.

A great presentation and a few words of appreciation

Anna & David Cadd and friends with a copy of Kelly's book

A very happy Debbie Babuscio with her own copy

I have not read Kelly's book as of yet, but I'm very much looking forward to it. Here's just a glimpse of what's inside besides the magnificent pictures and clear descriptions of what it means to be an iris fanatic:


"With this book I feel like I'm telling an epic story about how to grow and love magically colored bearded irises, complete with a dashing cast of characters, a rich historical backdrop, and an optimistic and enterprising protagonist -- you. This is a book about iris lovers -- plant lovers of a special kind who seek out rhizome sales like garage sales, track the comings and goings of bearded irises with unabashed addiction, and approach color-laden standards, falls and beards without fear. If you're holding this book, you're lover already, or one in eager training."


Kelly, you're describing me to perfection.


Timber Press has more information about the book, please click on the link to get more information.

My Favorite Irises: Jim Hedgecock Tries To Choose

In his recent article included in the April issue of IRISES, The Bulletin of The American Iris Society, Hybridizer Jim Hedgecock from Gower, Missouri, explains his trouble picking his favorite spuria irises from the many available in his own garden, and we can see why. Take a look at some of the ones included just for the Spring Issue of IRISES, and why he likes them:

Jim says about these, "‘Blueberry Sundae’ (2000). This is one of Dave Niswonger’s best ever spurias in my book. I love this subtle, pale blue blend. It is one of those unique spurias that you won’t mix up with others in the garden.

‘Piper May’ is a 2009 Charlie Jenkins introduction that has exploded in popularity. The standards are reddish purple with falls that are bright yellow with stitches and striations of reddish purple over the lower two-thirds of the petals. 

‘Mythical Nights’ (Hedgecock, 2009) is one of my first introductions, and I am partial to it because it has such clean, dark navy and blue purple blended flowers. There aren’t very many in this color range in spurias. 

‘Elfin Sunshine’ (Jenkins, 1998) is one of my favorites because it blooms almost two weeks ahead of the main spuria crowd. This little showoff just captures everyone’s heart. The small flowers on short stalks are pale yellow blending to dark yellow." 

The full article contains more information about Jim Hedgecock's hybridizing work and more of his favorite spurias.

For more information about spuria irises, tips on how to grow them, and a directory of commercial sources, check the Spuria Iris Society website.

IRISES is a quarterly publication available in print or digital formats to members of The American Iris Society. For AIS membership information please see our website here.