HELP!! how do i prune or trim overgrown iris plants?

Irises do not need pruning or trimming. They do, however, benefit from lifting and dividing (every 2 years is optimal). Most irises have rhizomes, a thickened stem that grows horizontally underground, producing roots along its lower surface. This rhizome will sprout new irises as it grows underground and your irises will look crowded. Simply dig the plant up, gently divide the rhizome, and replant. Tip: Iris rhizomes must show above the earth; sunlight on the rhizome prompts irises to bloom. Mulching irises is good, but do not place the mulch over the rhizome. Irises like full sun. Iris foilage does not need to be cut back; it is beautiful on its own.

HELP!! how do i prune or trim overgrown iris plants?
irises have large roots that continue to grow and multiply. if your iris bed is getting too overgrown it is time to divide and conquer! dig up half of the plants and trim the leaves down to about 6 inches (make the cuts at an angle...like a pan-flute). the best time to do this is in the fall before frost and well after blooming time. the irises that you left in the ground can also be cut back. share the ones you dug up with a friend or plant in a different location leaving room between them to expand over time. i only plant my irises about 4 inches deep.
Reply:You can trim stalks back anytime after bloom is finished. Overgrown plants need their tubers/bulbs separated and replanted with very little soil and some mulch on top. You may have some to give away!
Reply:after they have bloomed just dig some up and plant them somewhere else or give them to friends. if you do transplant them make sure you water well and don't let them go dry in the heat. usually i transplant them in my garden every 3 or 4 years.