The pod will not explode when ripe, the way some other non-iris plants scatter their seeds. You may wait until the pods have almost turned brown, then collect the seeds. Iris seeds do need to be stratified before they will germinate. I use about a tablespoonful of seed-starting mix, just moistened (not wet), in a plastic snack bag (labeled, of course, with the iris' name and number of seeds in the bag, so you know when to throw it away.) Place these in the fridge for at least 9 weeks, or until you're ready to grow the seedlings in small pots. The different types will germinate at different rates, but most will start to move about 2 weeks after you remove them to room temperature. Check frequently and pot up as they germinate in their little bags. This saves space, since it eliminates having pots which contain seeds that may never germinate. Iris seedlings are not as delicate as seedlings of some other plants, but they still need to be hardened off before planting in the garden. My seedlings of species iris from last winter's SIGNA seed exchange are almost ready to be put into the flower beds, having spent time in shade, dappled shade, then sunlight outside for several weeks. If you have I. Pseudacorus, and it sounds as if you might, that's an easy one to germinate and grows quickly into a tall, strong plant.

Exception: Sweet Flag Iris pods explode and get everywhere by the middle of September. I have begun replacing them with something I like better - Louisiana Iris. Email me anytime to discuss. Robin near Boston MA

would love to try water iris thank you darl192@aol.com

I have Yellow Flag iris, think this was also referred to as Sweet Flag. Anyway, the seed pods do explode.

I have been raising water irises for about three years and the yellow ones you have are the first I tried. I planted them in a flat and kept them in a heated green house the first time. Now I just let the seed fall on the ground and spread a light covering of soil over them and I have plenty to come up in the spring.Do you have other water irises?