In celebration of Joplin's official flower, the Joplin Recycling Center is again accepting iris rhizomes, pictured at left.

The Center makes many items available for reuse such as books, magazines packaging materials, and moving boxes, so an iris bulb swap program is a natural fit," said Mary Anne Phillips, recycling coordinator. "Local gardeners looking for economical ways to continue their hobby may drop off or retrieve iris bulbs while visiting the Recycling Center."

Irises should be planted in mid-summer to early fall, but the iris is a very tolerant plant and can still establish itself even when planted or maintained incorrectly.

Dividing iris bulbs is recommended to prevent overcrowding and to promote more blooms. Overcrowding also can lead to diseases because of poor air circulation. Following are general guidelines for digging up the bulbs:

• Each division should have one or two leaf fans.

• Use a waterproof marker to write the name and or color on the leaf.

• Wrap bulbs in newspaper.

• Discard the old Mother plant, or any bulb that is not healthy or is soft, or has few white feeding roots.

The Recycling Center is located at 1310 W. A St., Joplin. Hours are noon-6 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays, 9 a.m-3 p.m. on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays.

For additional recycling information, contact Phillips at (417) 624-0820, extension 501. For gardening advice, contact the University Extension Center, any Master Gardener, or your favorite nursery.

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