Japanese Iris question...?

Question

I have two Japanese Iris clusters I planted for the first time this season. Bloomed nicely... After the blooms passed the plant produced what look like bulbs right underneath where the bloom was...they are still green as of right now. Are these bulbs or seed pods ? If so, whats the right way to remove them and prepare for replanting ?

Answer 1

Mature pods will ripen brown and should crack at the top. Sometimes the pods are empty if the hybrid does not produce fertile seeds. The seeds should be brown and glossy.
To germinate they need to experience a cold spell. Place them with some moist potting mix in a zip lock bag. Place the bag in the refrigerator (not freezer) for at least 9 weeks, or until you're ready to grow the seedlings. Remove the bag to room temperature & keep an eye on it. In two weeks they will start to sprout. Pot them up as each seed sprouts.
Your plants are very likely hybrids so do not expect your seeds to produce a plant exactly like the parent.

Answer 2

After the first frosts, remove and destroy all old foliage by cutting back to 1-2 inches. Each year new roots grow above the previous year's roots. In 3-4 years dig and divide the plant. Replant in a new area, or amend the soil before replanting.

The divisions must not be allowed to dry out before planting. Plant the divisions 2-3 inches deep in a depression and fill the depression with mulch. The depression will catch and hold water. Keep the new plants wet for the balance of the season. Use 2-3 inches of mulch on the plants all year.

Divide this plant in the very early spring or fall. It is easy to do with a shovel. Dig up a clump and cut or pry it apart. No big deal here.

You’ll want to divide your iris every 3-5 years because it will become overcrowded. If you see a dead center surrounded by tall leaves, it really is time to divide.

They are also heavy feeders and like an acidic soil.