When can bearded iris be cut down?

Question

Our bearded iris bloom in May. Is it okay if I cut them down now since the season has ended?

Answer 1

It's best to wait 4 to 6 weeks following flowering to do anything to irises as the leaves need to replenish the rhizome. Do, however, remove the spent flower stalk. They are dormant in late summer to early fall and that is the best time to cut the fans back or dig and divide. When you cut back the foliage, leave 6 to 8 inches of foliage cut in an inverted V shape.

https://aces.illinois.edu/news/planting-iris