Growing Bearded Iris

Irises are extremely hardy given the correct conditions.  

There are a few basic rules that you need to keep in mind:

1. most types prefer full sun or at least a lot of sun - flowering will be reduced if they don't have enough sun.
2. good drainage is essential for Bearded Iris - they grow from rhizomes and they can rot if they are wet for too long.
3. dividing most irises is essential as the clumps can get over crowded and this reduces their ability to flower well. Keep in mind the mother rhizomes that flower never flower again and they then make babies to replace themselves.
4. general care involves fertilising with a low nitrogen fertiliser, minimal watering and good weed control as they are not keen on competition.
5. they do not like mulch as it can cause rot of the rhizomes.
6. do not trim back healthy leaves unless you are dividing as the healthy leaves feed the rhizomes.

Louisiana Irises require different conditions to Bearded Irises.

Growing Daylilies

Daylilies are also hardy but prefer different conditions.

1) they like a good amount of sun but probably prefer part shade especially in the hottest part of the day

2) they like a bit more water than irises, are heavier feeders and they like mulch

3) they also like good drainage but are more tolerant than irises.

International Database

There are more than 60,000 Tall Bearded Iris varieties and a lot of other types as well.

The IRIS ENCYCLOPEDIA (wiki) of the American Iris Society lists all the registered varieties and their breeding details, year of release and photographs. It also has growing information but mostly for USA conditions.