I have been struggling with iris borers the last few years. We have had a horrible winter this year here in iowa. Just was wondering when I should clean off the leaves in my flower beds. Thanks, Kim

I would do it as soon as the weather allows. I pull off the dry ones which will come and trim the brown off of the ones that are partly green.



These need attention....

Oh Kim -- bummer...............

I mean the tree leaves, I tried to keep them rid of the leaves. But I eventually gave up it seemed like I was fighting a losing battle. Kim

Now is the right time to get rid of tree leaves as well as trimming up your iris plants. The Iris borer moths lay their eggs on the "dead" foliage of the plant, but the would also end up on tree leaves that are on the ground. Clean up gives the plant better access to the Sun, gets rid of dead fans/leaves and potential disease causing foliage, removes excess moisture holding material, and makes the garden look good. Just do it!

I agree, clear them if possible. Ours are still under snow. I hope the borer & other bugs are messed up by the cold weather.