Overwintering Irises

What care is needed to overwinter irises? I haven't grown them before and never considered whether they were evergreen or not, but mine are now looking awful. Should I cut them back? How close to the ground?

I try to get them cut back to a couple of inches tall this fall or before warm spring weather hits to deter garden pests. Mine are alos lightly mulched with chopped leaves since they are mixed in with ly daylilies, lilies & other perennials. All much has to be cleaned off them once spring returns so they can stay nice & dry.

Wanda: Thanks! Your irises are doing great in my yard!

I'll be looking to see them bloom come spring...