A. Mulch is not required but it is often beneficial. Three inches is plenty. Wait until the ground cools down. Mulch just before the ground freezes. If you're planting bulbs for only one year's bloom, fertilizer is not needed.
Bulbs already carry a season's supply of food in the moist tissue surrounding the embryonic flower.
Sometimes you will buy bulbs before you are ready to plant in order to get the best selection. While it's always best to plant your bulbs as soon after you receive them as possible, when you have to wait, be sure to store the bulbs in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Some people keep their bulbs in the refrigerator crisper drawer, taking care to avoid storing them with ripening fruit. They should be fine for several weeks even months if properly handled. But don't wait too long.