Size is important. Larger bulbs tend to produce larger and more pleasing blooms. Avoid soft bulbs and those that seem bruised. The outer, paper-like skin does not need to be intact for the bulb to grow. Choose bulbs that are firm, with no soft spots, sprouts, or mold, and do not give off a bad odor.
Good bulbs feel heavy for their size.
Plant them in a sunny, well-drained bed. Bulbs will give the most pleasing results when planted in clumps or mass displays. Spring flowering bulbs can be planted from October through December, depending on the temperatures where you live. If it's still pretty warm in October, wait to plant until daytime temperatures drop. Some bulbs require more chilling than most areas of our state offers to bloom their best, so chilling can be done in the fridge.