I've noticed these bugs on a number of the plants, and i'm worried they'll damage the plants. They look like mites of some sort? (zoom in for better view). Thanks in advance!

You have aphids. They are easy to get rid of. Just look it up on the internet

Insecticidal soap is the most organic way.

I hate aphids and when they come, there always seems to be so many of the little buggers...

lady bug nymphs help. especially if you can get the adults to stay long enough to lay eggs in your garden.

Hate the dang aphids. They are very abundant this year. Soap has not help much for me this year. GRRRR

I use a mix of a little dish soap and water in a squirt bottle. Once I see the good bugs move in, I stop spraying. That soapy water can kill them too.

If you see ants by your aphid infected plants, kill them too. Those ants will farm the aphids and move them to other plants.

Thank you! i've always heard the word "aphids" and never knew what they looked like. Eeeeew. Thanks for all the suggestions!

irrka1 ~ to the Iris Forum!