Some bulbs or corms can merely be placed in your garage, greenhouse, or coldframe. Milder climates allow you to place them in a cool bright spot in the garden. Tazetta Narcissus bulbs do not require chilling, but do need cool night temperatures and rooting time. Different containers work for forcing. Forcing jars support one bulb in water, as will small vases.
Some plant varieties do well in potting soil, sand, decorative rocks or pebbles.
If planting in soil or sand, plant so that most of bulb is buried, with just the tip poking out and the level of medium is at least an inch below rim of pot. If bulbs are in soil fertilize when you bring them indoors with half-strength liquid fertilizer. Freesia corms, daffodils and tulips require enough time to develop roots to support their tall heavy tops. Use hurricane-lamp chimneys or wire supports for these stalks.