Hello, Iris friends, patrons, and family,

As the 2026 iris selection goes live on the web site it will mark my 46th year of raising and hybridizing irises. Yes, I have seen a lot of the proverbial water pass under the bridge. Irises have been my career, and they will be as long as I can breathe. I am definitely slowing down, and I spend much of my time overseeing younger farmhands working in the field. 

I am introducing 15 new irises this year. Three of these are for two of my friends, Drew Fritts and Darol Jurn. These irises are very well-bred, and it is my pleasure to bring them to you on the website.

Your support made 2025 one of the most successful years in the company's history. I strive to provide you with excellent plants that will thrive in almost any climate in the US. Tall Bearded irises provide the iconic bloom for yards and gardens across the country, and I have the largest number of reselected tall bearded seedlings I have ever had in the fields. Watch for many more new introductions in the near future.

At the same time, I have been a long-time supporter of Spuria irises, and with more than 75,000 Spuria irises being grown on the farm, we are the biggest Spuria iris nursery in the world. Spuria irises are exploding in popularity, and I am promoting these irises in every medium I can. If you have not tried them, grow a few, and you will be a supporter.

As we introduce our 2026 plant selection, I wish each of you the very best for your gardens. Please remember I am always available for help with your iris issues by phone or email.

As we announce our 2026 plant selection, the holiday season is well underway, and I want to take this opportunity to wish each of you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. May your families and your gardens be blessed during this special season and the new year.

Jim Hedgecock

Remember our motto: "I care about you and your irises."