How to Winterize a Dutch Iris

Among the many iris varieties, Dutch iris cultivars fit into a sunny growing area well with slender stems and average blossom size. With blossoms in a range of colors from purples to blues to whites, these spring bloomers will add drama and bright interest to a flower bed. Before the growing season ends, winterize a Dutch iris plant to ensure that it survives freezing winter temperatures.

Pruning shears
Shredded mulch (leaves, bark or wood chips)

Instructions

- 1
  Water the Dutch iris plant regularly throughout the end of the growing season, even after the plant finishes blooming. If less than 1 inch of rain falls within a one-week period, water the plant thoroughly to saturate the soil.
- 2
  Cut back the Dutch iris plant with the pruning shears to make it flush with the soil level when the foliage yellows and withers.
- 3
  Discard the removed foliage in the trash or the compost bin.
- 4
  Place approximately 4 inches of shredded mulch over the soil to cover the bulb beneath the soil.

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