Planting the flower bulbs

 As long as you ensure that your bulbs have good drainage and sunlight, you can plant them just about anywhere. 

Drainage is critical to keep bulbs healthy. They like loamy or slightly sandy soil because it provides the drainage and nutrients they need. 

Grab a fistful of soil with a gloved hand and ball it up in your hand. It should remain in a ball shape, but if poked, it crumbles easily.

Early-spring bloomers can be planted under deciduous trees where they’ll get enough sun to bloom before the tree's leaves grow and block out the sunlight. However, they'll only bloom well the first year, as they'll need sunlight later in the season for the leaves to gather enough energy for next year's flowers.

 1. Determine the planting depth for the type of bulb you’re planting. A good general rule of thumb is to plant the bulb 2 to 3 times as deep as the bulb is tall.

2. Prepare the soil by loosening and mixing in organic material if needed for added nutrients or to improve drainage.

3. Place the bulbs with the pointed-end up and with the roots down. If you’re not sure of the top or bottom of the bulb, plant it on its side and it will find its way to the surface.

4. Cover with soil and a light layer of mulch, for example compost or bark chippings, this will help the soil retain nutrients and moisture.

5. Newly planted bulbs should be watered well to get settled in.