What's eating my dwarf bearded iris?

Dwarf Bearded Iris (Iris pumila) suffers from iris borer caterpillars, aphids on crowded clumps, and iris leaf spot disease. Thrips damage the showy flowers. Rhizome rot can follow borer damage. Deer and rabbits occasionally browse the foliage. Divide crowded clumps every 3–4 years to maintain good airflow and reduce pest pressure.

Larvae notch leaves and tunnel into rhizomes; borer entry points visible as water-soaked lesions; rhizomes rot and smell foul Remove old foliage in autumn to destroy eggs; hand-pick larvae from leaves in spring; drench soil with beneficial nematodes

Colonies at base of fans and on flower scapes; honeydew, sooty mold, and weakened plant vigor Spray with insecticidal soap; blast off with water; encourage ladybirds and lacewings in the garden

Silvery streaking and flecking on petals; flowers appear bleached or scorched; buds may fail to open Apply spinosad spray at bud stage; remove and dispose of spent flower stems promptly