Keep the soil consistently moist during the growing season, but avoid waterlogging, especially in winter. Water thoroughly when the top few centimeters of soil feel dry.

Reduce watering significantly in dormancy to prevent root rot. Ensure good drainage.

Remove dead or damaged foliage as needed throughout the year. After flowering, trim spent flower stalks to the ground. In late autumn, cut back all foliage to about 10-15 cm above the ground to prepare for winter.

Iris nicolai is best propagated by division of rhizomes in late summer or early autumn, after flowering has finished. Carefully dig up the plant, separate healthy rhizomes with at least one or two growing points, and replant them promptly.

Repot iris nicolai every 2-4 years, or when the rhizomes become overcrowded and are breaking the pot's edge. The best time for repotting is late summer or early autumn, after the plant has finished flowering and is entering a less active phase.