How to Plant Spring Bulbs

Easy to grow in pots and gardens, spring-flowering bulbs are a mix of true bulbs, corms, rhizomes and tubers. Bulbs are sold singularly or in packs at nurseries, from 25 cents to $3 for rarer types. Mail-order companies tend to have a wide range, including rare types for collectors. Choose plump, well-formed ones without signs of mould and store in a cool, dry place.

Choosing for climate
Spring bulbs tend to suit cooler climates, including tulip, daffodil and hyacinth, but there are some for warmer areas, such as babiana, jonquil, freesia, snowflake, Spanish bluebell and grape hyacinth. Some like freesia self-seed so don't plant near the bush.

Preparing the soil
Well-draining soil is best. Improve sandy, dry or compacted soil with compost and fertiliser such as Yates bulb food, $6 for 600g, from nurseries or garden centres. Thick pots keep the potting mix cool for healthy growth.

Planting for patterns
Choose a spot with winter and spring sun, then scatter bulbs and plant them where they land for a natural effect, or clump up to 15 close together. Plant the pointy end facing upwards and twice as deep as the bulb width, so a 30mm-wide bulb sits 60mm below the surface.

Maintenance
Rainfall or weekly watering is enough, and go easy on the fertiliser. When flowering finishes the foliage dies, but for some bulbs such as jonquils it lasts longer as they store food in the leaves. If these are cut down too early the plant won't flower next spring, so keep the yellowing leaves tidy by tying them in a knot.