Photo: Stefan.lefnaer, CC BY-SA 3.0 · source
Pruning guide · Perennial
Dwarf iris: when and how to prune
Iris pumila
Dwarf iris is best pruned in June and November.
| Pruning months | June and November |
|---|---|
| Flowering | April–May |
| Native to Belgium | No, planted |
| Poisonous to people and pets | Yes, take care with children and pets |
Dwarf iris: when to prune it?
It hardly needs pruning. After flowering, in June, cut off the spent flowers, and in November the dead leaves.
Dwarf iris: how to prune it?
- Cut spent flowers and their stems off just above the leaf fan.
- Leave the green leaves until they turn yellow or brown by themselves.
- In November, remove brown and dead leaves so the rhizome does not rot and slugs have fewer hiding places.
How much to cut, and how often?
- There are 2 pruning periods a year: June and November. You don’t have to prune in every one.
What does it mean for wildlife?
- Don’t cut more than you need to: what stays standing gives insects and birds food and shelter.
Caution: Wear gloves when dividing or cleaning the rhizomes: the sap can irritate the skin. Dwarf iris is poisonous: wear gloves and keep clippings away from children, pets and livestock.
Nearby: related pruning guides
Plant profile: Dwarf iris · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.