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Removing spent flowers is referred to as "deadheading." Deadheading lengthens the bloom time of a perennial, prevents seeding, and enhances the appearance of the plant. Here is a bearded iris with several spent flowers.

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On each flower stalk there are several flowers and/or buds. As a general rule, remove the faded flowers to the point where another flower, bud or leaf arises. Use hand pruners to cut off the old flowers of most perennials.

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Remove the complete flower. Don't leave a portion behind that could develop into seeds.

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When all flowers on a stalk have gone by, as with this bearded iris, cut the stalk off at the base. Be careful though: faded purple daylily and iris flowers can stain clothes and skin!