· Should not be bought too immature; the buds must show at least 4/5 inch of color
· Sensitive to botrytis; use no more than 2 inches water in the pail
· Cut off dried up stems and stand in cold (35 F.) water
· Sensitive to dehydration, do not leave dry
· Flowers die quickly; do not take too many flowers out of the cold store during warm weather
· Pptimal storage temperature: 35 to 46 F.
· Cut flower food improves flowering
Additional information:
Most iris are supplied in winter and spring. During summer most iris sold are grown out of doors. This produces a considerably smaller volume than growing under glass. From November to March iris is often supplied in containers with water. The advantage of this is that they open better in the home. A new pre-treatment method aims to improve both flowering and vase life even more.
Nothing looks better than an iris in full bloom, solid colored and beautifully shaped when fully open. Avoid disappointment by ensuring iris are not too immature when purchased. Those looking for security should only buy flowers that are showing color for a length of 1½ inches. This is especially true in the dark winter months. During the rest of the year the flowers can be less mature: at least 4/5 inch colored. Also check to see that the bunches are consistent in length and sturdiness. Soft stems can indicate excess moisture loss or a product that has been stored for too long. Drying out will shorten the vase life. 
Florists are advised to shorten the stems by about 2 inches and to stand the flowers in ice cold water containing cut flower food, while they are still in their wrapper. If necessary use ice-cubes to bring down the water temperature. A 2 inch layer of water is ideal. Replace the water every two days, adding cut flower food each time. Avoid strong temperature fluctuations as this can encourage botrytis. The faster the flowers are turned around, the better the final result. If, despite all precautions, the flower refuse to open, you can give them a little help by loosening the bracts or slitting them with a sharp knife.
Iris is supplied to the Dutch flower auctions all year round, in bunches of ten with an average stem length of 23 inches.
The Dutch dark blue iris is a hybrid created by crossing a number of ancestors from the South of France (Iris Xiphium) and Morocco (IrisTingitana and Lusitanica). The Iris Hollandica hybrid as we know it, was created in the Netherlands in 1891. The white or pale blue varieties are sometimes called Florentine Lilies. They originally came from Egypt. This 'Fleur de lis' has been the symbol of France since the 13th century. The iris is the logo of the city of Florence and in Japan it is a symbol of fertility.
In Greek mythology Iris ('rainbow') is the beautiful, fleet-footed messenger between the gods and men. She wore a 'robe of dewdrops that reflected the stars and passed on her messages through the rainbow, the colorful bridge between heaven and earth'. This is why iris is also a symbol of 'understanding' and 'message'.
