Irises require bright, full sunlight all day and quick, efficient drainage. They do not require excessive nutrition from soil in their first year, but will require it in their second. In the first year, however, they can grow in an alternative growing foundation.
Iris bulbs require complete drainage, and won't bloom in standing water. Instead, they may rot. To grow the bulbs in a glass container or centerpiece for decoration, a gardener must fill the centerpiece with a foundation like gravel or marbles, to support the bulbs and ensure drainage.
Gardeners should fill their glass centerpiece halfway with gravel or marbles, then plant each iris bulb 2 inches deep, with 4 inches of space between the bulbs.