Iris borer (Macronoctua onusta) is a pinkish caterpillar with rows of black spots on their sides. When full grown, it is about 2 inches long. The larvae emerge from the ground in April or early May when iris leaves are about 4-6 inches tall.
Iris borers can be one of the leading causes of dither among your iris plants. The destruction of irises, via the infestation of iris borers, is almost entirely unique to the eastern coast, with a few exceptions.
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Damage is caused by iris borer
Photo: Michelle Grabowski
Some irises with large heavy blooms and taller stems benefit from staking; use a thin bamboo or metal stake next to the plant and soft ties to attach them.
The foremost insect pests targeting bearded iris are iris borers and aphids. Iris borers are best controlled through cultivation. Trimming away infested areas of the plant and removing dead foliage each fall can help reduce borer infestations.
Inspect the iris rhizomes for holes that may indicate the presence of the iris borer. The iris borer is a small caterpillar that eats its way into the leaves of the iris and then bores down to the rhizomes.
Bearded irises are prone to two problems, fungal leaf spot and iris borers. Leaf spots, which are encouraged by damp, stagnant air, can be controlled by disposing of yellowing leaves. For prevention, divide and replant to promote good air circulation.
Here's a page on bearded iris and controlling iris borer.
One of the specialty iris - the Japanese Iris growing instructions can be found here.
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After the flowers fade, the foliage looks good until the first hard frost. If planted about 18 inches apart, they'll knit together in about three years. The Siberian iris is resistant to the iris borer.
Strains for control of tomato hornworm, Colorado potato beetle and cornborer are also available. Among other biologicals are beneficial nematodes for control of grubs, iris borers, cutworms and wireworms.
Few diseases bother the plant but Iris borers can eat up the roots. Cut away any rhizome that looks diseased or rotten, let it dry out of the ground for a day or two then replant the healthy root and fan.
 See also: Borer, Plant, Spring, Flower, Soil
  
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