Break off spent flowers of iris, daylilies, gladiola and hollyhock (optional)

Breaking off spent flowers where the stem meets the stalk is the best way to deadhead long-stem flowers, such irises and daylilies, that grow in a succession of blooms on a single stalk. Pull down gently on the spent flower until it cleanly snaps off. Breaking off faded flowers will add to the plant's appearance if not the overall flower productivity.