Iris Care

Question

I have just moved to NC and we have a fantastic yard with lots of flowers. The irises have finished blooming. Do I cut them back (deadhead them)? I do not know how to take care of them.

Answer 1

The foliage will die back on its own and is a necessary process for the plants. The rhizomes (bulbs) get their energy (nutrients) from the leaves so do not cut them. The plants will bloom again the next growing season. As for the blooms and deadheading, this too is not necessary but if you want to cut the spent flowers, it will not harm the plants.