How to propagate Rhizomes from a bearded Iris

 From the following website:  http://www.landspro.com/page1.htm

Thank you for taking care of our planet!  If you are not aware – a rhizome is like a potato – you can plant an “eye” and get it to grow to full size.  These rhizomes are segmented so you can cut at the joint, leave together, or separate by cutting in to lengths of your own.  Be mindful the area that is cut is open to invaders!

Rhizomes – Irises are the probably the most common form of rhizomes and will be used as the example. Step 1. Carefully, dig up the Iris rhizome using a hand trowel.  Shake off the excess soil.  This should be done when soil is dry. Step 2. Remove any dead (dried) leaves and roots by gently pulling them away from the rhizome.  If they do not pull away easily, cut them at the base with a clean pair of scissors.  Step 3.  If multiple rhizomes have formed, pull them apart gently.  If they do not pull apart gently, then they will need to be cut as shown later in the section. Step 4. Place a small amount of rooting hormone with a fungicide** in a zippered storage bag.  Place the scales in the bag, zip the bag shut tightly and shake the bag to dust the scales with the mixture.
	Step 5. Some of the larger rhizomes have 'eyes' similar to a potato as shown (pencil is pointing to it). Step 6. Cut the rhizomes into sections making sure that each section has at least one eye. Step 7.  Cut the leaves with a pair of scissors leaving one inch of leaves remaining. Step 8. Holding the rhizome inside the bag, shake off the excess powder, then remove the rhizome from the bag (wear rubber gloves, preferably disposable ones). Step 9. Your new rhizomes are now ready to plant back outdoors.  Be sure to space them at least 6-8 inches apart to allow for growth. The live roots should be buried, but the top 1/4 inch of rhizome should remain above the soil.  Water lightly.