Course CodeVHT111Fee CodeS2Duration (approx)100 hoursQualificationTo obtain formal documentation the optional exam(s) must be completed which will incur an additional fee of £30. Alternatively, a letter of completion may be requested. Want to be an Iris Expert? Gain an in-depth appreciation of the iris Identify different varieties of irises. Learn to grow them to achieve optimum results Study how to incorporate iris in landscaping and more This is a valuable course for anyone with a serious interest in irises either as a commercial grower or an enthusiastic home collector. Lesson Structure There are 8 lessons in this course: Introduction Review of the system of plant identification Classification of iris into bulbous, rhizomatous and tuberous Scientific classification (into sections, sub sections, series and species) Biology of iris Information sources Review of Iris xiphium Culture Plant selection Planting Staking Mulching Watering Feeding Pruning, etc. Propagation and Hybridisation Seed Division Separation Tissue Culture Review of selected species/hybrids. Review of Major Types of Irises Bearded Louisiana Siberian Dutch English Spanish Pest and Diseases Review of species from contrasting environments Review of various health problems Water Irises Review of species Irrigation Irises in Hydroponics Landscaping with Irises Garden Design Cottage Gardens Using Colour Review of more Iris species Flower bed design Harvest, Post Harvest, Exhibiting and Quality Aims Explain the taxonomy of Iris Explain the normal cultural requirements for different types or Iris. Breed and propagate Iris. Describe the identification and culture of a range of commonly cultivated Iris. Manage pest and disease problems on Iris Manage water requirements for Iris Discuss cultivation of Iris hydroponically Explain the use of Irises in landscaping Describe the production of Iris as a cut flower crop, in particular the harvest and post harvest. COLOUR THEMES - AN EXTRACT FROM THE COURSE NOTES Colour is a major factor in any garden. Whether you acknowledge it or not, colour has a psychological effect on us all. Certain colours are known to relax us while others stimulate. You can use this characteristic to give your cottage garden life, vitality and action, or calmness, serenity and contemplation. Some characteristics of particular colours follow: cool colours: blue, green and white calm, relaxing and subtle warm colours: red, yellow and orange lively, stimulating and active In cool climates, it may be helpful to provide a splash of warm coloured plants to enliven the garden. In warm districts, mass flowers in the blue, green and white colour range will give an effect of soothing and relaxing coolness. Colour themes of: white flowers with silver and dark green background cool and harmonious orange, read or yellow flowers with dark green background warm and tropical warm colours brings the garden closer cool colours makes the garden appear larger Colours that blend well together are referred to as harmonious colours. Colours that conflict with each other are known as contrasting colours. Contrasting colours are used to make a focal point or to break up monotony that can result from excessive use of a single or two colours. Garden features are frequently surrounded with contrasting flowering plants in order to accentuate the feature. Contrast can be used to enhance the garden but if incorrectly done may result in chaos which is not wanted in most garden designs. WHO WILL BENEFIT FROM THIS COURSE? Nurserymen Landscapers Florists Cut Flower farmers Gardeners Horticulture Professionals Amateur plant enthusiasts HOW TO ENROL Click box below on left hand side - follow instructions. IF YOU NEED ADVICE - click here to use our FREE ADVISORY SERVICE