Cutting Back Iris After They Bloom

My dwarf iris has finished blooming for the summer. The plant is a big sprawling mess. Can I cut it back now (June 12)?

Hardiness Zone: 5a

By Sally from Chicago, IL

Answers:

Cutting Back Iris After They Bloom

We can divide iris here in Southern Ca. during July/Aug into Sept. I haven't heard about "cutting them back". The normal thing is to dig up the rhizomes and cut the leaves into a fan shape, wash off the dirt and rinse the rhizomes in a 9 part water to1 part bleach solution. Let them dry/scar over for a few days before replanting. I assume that dwarf iris are treated in the same fashion. Good Luck. GG Vi (06/19/2010)

By Vi Johnson