Bulbs
Bulbs are fairly easy to grow. If you plant them correctly, you are almost guaranteed a great looking garden. It is important to use high-quality bulbs in your garden. Also, larger bulbs will produce more flowers than smaller bulbs. When planning your layout, keep in mind that hardy bulbs such as daffodils and tulips are best planted in the autumn, whereas tender bulbs such as begonias and dahlias are best planted a few weeks before the last spring frost.
Storing
It is ideal to plant bulbs immediately after receiving them. However if that is not possible, you need to make sure that you store them correctly. Bulbs need to be kept dry before planting. Store them in a clean, cool, dry place in a breathable bag.
Planting
Bulbs look best when planted in clumps of 5, 7, or 9. Large bulbs should be planted approximately 5 inches apart, small bulbs 2 inches apart. As a general rule, plant bulbs at a depth that is 3 to 4 times the height of the bulb. For example, if a bulb is 2 inches high, it should be planted approximately 6-8 inches deep. If there are any roots or root remnants on your bulbs, that side should go down.
Maintaining
With most bulbs, once you plant them there is not much else you need to do except wait for them to bloom. Bulbs generally require 16-18 weeks from planting to flowering. Most bulbs do benefit from a once-a-year application of nitrogen fertiliser during their growing season.
Some tender bulbs that are grown in cold winter climates need to be dug up and stored. To do this, wait until the foliage is almost dried up and then dig up the bulb. Dust them off and store them in a cool, dry place in a breathable bag for about a week. Throw away any damaged or rotting bulbs and pack the remaining bulbs in a dry peat moss or perlite in a cool, dry place until next season when it is time to replant them.