Perennial flowering shrubs, like the bearded iris plant, will require some attention during this time of year as we transition into the cooler seasons.
While many of you may have never seen or heard of a bearded iris before, those of you who have them in your own gardens will want to give them a little autumn TLC to help ensure that they are healthy enough to bloom next year.
These plants are naturally rather flimsy after their velvety blooms appear early in the season, and if left unattended, they can become a harbor for fungal diseases.
Cut them back after the blooms are spent and destroy the cuttings rather than mulching them. This will help shield your plants from sickness and give them a great platform for blooming in the spring.