It depends on how good of a detail person you are. Detailing is a time consuming process, but the grass will only spread if you don't stop it in its tracks now.

Here is a link that might be useful: Propagating Perennials

thanks

my main concern is just protecting the plants. I am afraid the grass will crowd them but I am afraid to hurt the

I am worried as it is about this planting area the arrival of a large and wild dog has threatend my small garden. I love the doggie though so if plants cant survive him they are out.

Daylilies and Dutch Iris are very tough plants. If I were in your shoes, I would wait until the Irises bloom, then dig out all the Iris and all the daylilies. Do what you have to do to get rid of the grass. Install an edging that will prevent a repeat of the problem. Then replant the daylilies and Iris, checking very carefully to be sure there aren't grass roots tangled in with the flower roots.

The lilies and iris can be laid in the shade for weeks, even months while you take care of the grass problem, and they will survive perfectly well. Sprinkle them with water if it doesn't rain. When you replant you can take advantage of the opportunity to divide your plants at the same time.

If the grass has grown into the daylily roots, it will be nearly impossible to ever get it out any other way, and herbicides will harm your flowers. You'll miss a year's bloom of daylilies, but in the end, this will be the fastest and easiest way. (to my knowledge.)