For me, nothing reminds me more of the budding summer season than the scent of bearded iris. Growing up in Colorado, the first blooms of these beauties always coincided with the last day of school, and have been one of my favorites ever since. Requiring relatively little care, iris are a great addition to summer borders, tucked amongst summer blooming perennials like salvias and coneflowers. Iris rhizomes prefer to be planted in full sun (protection from late afternoon sun is best in hot areas) and in well drained soils. Make sure the top of the rhizome is peeking above the soil for optimal blooms. Available in almost every imaginable color, and usually a recycled joy from someone else's garden, bearded iris can be a great addition (and memory) for you.
Anything that can bring back that memory of freedom of the last day of the school year and the start of summer is wonderful! :)
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