How to Grow Bearded Irises in Containers

Choose rhizomes that don't have bruises, cuts or other damage, from the nursery or garden center. The bearded iris rhizomes should feel firm to the touch. They are available for fall planting.

Pick a garden container that has drainage holes. Clay containers are porous, therefore the soil dries out quickly, requiring additional watering. Plastic containers hold soil moisture for a longer period of time.

Pour a non-soil potting mixture, from the nursery, into the garden container. This type of potting mixture contains vermiculite, perlite and sphagnum peat moss, which keeps the soil moist and well drained at the same time. This is optimal for bearded irises in containers. Leave about 3 inches clear at the top of the container..

Dig a hole for each bearded iris rhizome that is as deep as twice its diameter. Potted irises are planted closer together than when they are planted directly into the ground. Space them about a half inch apart. They should never be touching, however. The pointed end of the rhizome should face upwards.

Push potting mix over each planted hole. Press lightly over the potting mixture to work out any air pockets.

Water the newly planted rhizomes until it drips out of the drainage holes. Keep the container indoors, or in a protected area, until the last frost has passed in spring. Place the potted bearded irises on your patio, porch or in any location that receives full sun during the day. Water the bearded irises when the soil feels dry.