Reblooming irises rarely rebloom in Chicago. Most years a hard frost below 28 degrees F hits in mid October and blast the developing flower scapes. This year was different and we had a mild October. I had more blooming stalks in the fall (12) than the spring. They are lovely in spring but stunning in autumn when they seem so incongruous with asters and fall foliage.
There are more varieties and colors of rebloomers available than ever. Sometimes a harsh fall can reduce a rebloomers spring display. In milder climates I would only plant re-bloomers. Chicago and colder should mix in some strictly spring bloomers to be on the safe side.
If you know hard frost is coming, cut down all stalks and bring them inside for dynamic cutflowers.
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