How to prune zigzag iris

After flowering in late spring to early summer; again in autumn before hard frost. Cut spent flower stems to the base with clean scissors or pruners. In autumn, shear foliage back to 3–4 inches above the rhizome. Do not cut into living green leaf fans during the growing season.

Twice yearly — deadhead after bloom, tidy foliage in autumn. Zigzag Iris benefits from pruning after flowering. Cut spent flower stalks to the base once blooms fade to keep plants tidy and prevent seed set. In autumn, trim back yellowing or frost-damaged foliage to a few inches above the crown. This encourages clean regrowth and reduces disease risk over winter.

Cut spent flower stems to the base with clean scissors or pruners. In autumn, shear foliage back to 3–4 inches above the rhizome. Do not cut into living green leaf fans during the growing season.