The Best Bulb-Planting Techniques

Let's face it—gardening requires a certain amount of planning ahead. Take bulbs, for example. Those classic spring bulbs we all love, like tulips, daffodils and hyacinths, need to be planted in the fall in much of North America. Finally, after a winter's worth of anticipation, up they come to welcome spring. Worth the wait, isn't it? But what do you need to do to get bulbs off to a good start?

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Most bulbs have a thin, dry tunic that helps them retain moisture. If it's still attached, smooth and glossy, the bulb is probably in good shape. But it's fine even if the tunic is missing, as long as the bulb isn't shriveled or soft.

BUY HEALTHY BULBS Look for large, firm bulbs that feel heavy for their size. Soft or shriveled ones won't make it. However, a little bit of blue-gray mold won't hurt anything if it wipes off easily.

KNOW WHICH SIDE IS UP With tulips and other true bulbs, it's easy to tell. But with some plants that grow from corms, tubers, tuberous roots and rhizomes, it's a little trickier. Look for dried, stringy roots, fleshy finger roots or a ring of fat dots that will indicate the bottom of the bulb. On top, you may see tiny irregularly placed “eyes” or buds. But don't worry too much if you can't tell which way it goes—the bulb will figure it out eventually!

The Best Bulb-Planting Techniques continued

CHOOSE A GOOD SPOT

Bulbs like plenty of sun when they're blooming, although it's OK if the area is shaded when they're dormant. Most also like well-drained soil.

GET THE DEPTH RIGHT

The rule of thumb is to plant a bulb three times as deep as its height if you want it to come back year after year. After you plant, spread a ½- to 1-inch layer of grit over the top of the hole to prevent squirrels from digging up your hard work.

TIME IT RIGHT