Joplin Recycling Center urges iris dig, divide and donate

(From the City of Joplin)

In celebration of the iris, Joplin’s official flower, the Recycling Center accepts iris rhizomes, or iris bulbs as they are commonly known. Local gardeners looking for economical ways to continue their hobby may drop off or retrieve iris bulbs while visiting the Recycling Center.

“The Center has facilitated iris bulb swaps for many years and often other types of plants are also dropped off,” said Mary Anne Phillips, Recycling Coordinator.

Irises should be planted in mid-summer to early fall, but the iris is a very tolerant plant and can still establish itself even when planted in late October or maintained incorrectly.

Dividing iris bulbs is recommended to prevent overcrowding and to promote more blooms. Overcrowding also can lead to diseases because of poor air circulation. Following are general guidelines for digging up the bulbs:
Each division should have one or two leaf fans.
Use a waterproof marker to write the name and or color on the leaf.
Wrap bulbs in newspaper.
Discard the old “Mother” plant, or any bulb that is not healthy or is soft, or has few white feeding roots.

The Joplin Recycling Center, 1310 West A Street, is open Tuesday and Thursday from 12 noon to 6 p.m. and Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The center accepts cardboard, fiberboard, magazines, books, office paper, newspapers, telephone books, plastic #1 and #2 bottles with necks, all colors of container glass, metal, packing peanuts, clean bubble wrap, #2 and #4 plastic shopping bags, cooking oil, and all batteries. Computers, televisions and all electronic waste, except large photocopiers, can also be dropped off at the Center. There is a “recycling fee” for televisions, computer monitors, and microwave ovens. Please call Mary Anne Phillips at 417-624-0820 extension 501. The Recycling Center is open to everyone, regardless of residency.

Limited household hazardous waste (HHW) is accepted from residents of McDonald, Newton, Jasper, Barton and Vernon Counties. This HHW service is funded by Region M Solid Waste Management District, the Department of Natural Resources, and the City of Joplin. Business hazardous waste is never accepted.

For additional recycling information, contact Mary Anne Phillips at 417-624-0820 extension 501. For gardening advice, contact the University Extension Center, any Master Gardener, or your favorite nursery.