Late this summer, I dug them out and divided them. They came apart into groups of 4-5 bulbs, held together with thick, woody rhizomes. I planted each group 2 inches deep in a 10 in. pot. They are up for about a month now, and healthy as hogs.

My main questions are: what else can I do to encourage bloom this year, and about when should I expect that bloom?

Thanks for the advice,
Kevin : )

As to fertilizer, only low nitrogen. Sunset says May bloom.

The only other thing I can think of is to allow the foliage to yellow before removing. It is unsightly during this time but don't remove it too early.

I'll switch to a rose food or such-like this year, and see how it does. I was assuming the Sunset date was for the coast.

I also routinely allow the foliage on my bulbs to dry completely before removing, having learned that the hard way 30 years ago! Last year it was July before I took off the leaves.

Thanks, iris gal!
Kevin : )

According to one source, each bulb needs a year's rest after flowering.

Fully agree about the low nitrogen feeding. And well-drained soil. Morning sun. Patience...;-)

Right now, I'm still prowling around, looking for a spot with morning sun and not too much water in the summer for one of the pots. The rest of them are going to be inflicted on my friends and neighbors as soon as they bloom--they're not likely to appreciate them otherwise! They already view me like the guy who has a big lemon tree, or 200 sq. ft. of zucchini plants in his back yard: "Oh, no! He's carrying a bag again!"

I may eventually wind up on the exchanges with some of my stuff, as soon as I can figure out this on-line security hooraw.

Kevin : )

Every day in every way, I'm getting better and better! [twitch, twitch]
Kevin : ]