Check drainage and light first
Map the intended planting spots, noting where rainwater stands and where spring sunshine reaches the soil. Many daffodils, tulips and crocuses grow well in bright conditions and free-draining soil, but bulbs associated with woodland habitats can prefer different moisture and light. A very wet winter border needs attention to drainage before more bulbs are added. For containers, make sure water can escape and choose pots that tolerate your local winter conditions.
Buy for the place and the season
Read the cultivar description, expected flowering period and mature height. Dwarf bulbs can suit the front of a border or a pot; taller stems may need a less exposed position. Decide how many bulbs fit the real planting area rather than ordering large quantities first. Repeating a few groups can produce a more coherent spring display than buying one bulb of every colour. Keep tender summer-flowering bulbs separate from hardy spring varieties because their planting seasons differ.
Inspect the bulbs
Healthy dormant bulbs usually feel firm and have no obvious soft, wet or strongly decayed areas. Reject mouldy or badly damaged specimens. Read species-specific planting depth recommendations: generic rules are useful only as a starting point, because bulb size and type vary. If your soil is heavy and waterlogged, consider whether a raised bed or well-drained container is more realistic than making a deep wet hole in the garden.
Care after planting
Water the planting area enough to settle the soil, then adapt watering to actual weather. After flowering, leave green foliage to replenish the bulb instead of tying it in knots or cutting it off immediately. In temporary pots, watch that bulbs do not remain in water after heavy rain. Before buying again next year, note which groups actually flowered and which planting sites were too wet or too shaded.
Continue with the seasonal calendar or browse the plant directory before adapting the steps to local conditions.