When most people think of bulbs they often think of daffodils or other similar flowers. But when it comes to the bulbous variety of flowers, it goes well beyond that.

While tulips, hyacinths and snowdrops also belong with the ‘true’ bulb family, there are many flowers that have corms, rhizomes or tubers. These include agapanthus and hippeastrums, dahlias, cannas and other lilies, irises, begonias, anemones and amaryllis, to name just a few.

Bulbs do the work of reproducing the plant but aside from that, they also store food for those months when the leaves die and the plant is dormant. This means that when the conditions are right and the new plant has all, then it needs to thrust new shoots up into the sunlight.

What most bulbs need to grow happily are moist, rich, free draining soil and a sunny position. Although many flower in the spring, it is possible to have bulbs flowering in every month of the year because such is their diversity.

To grow bulbs such as tulips in a temperate region, keep them in the refrigerator for four to eight weeks before planting out at the coldest time of year. In cold areas, it’s better to plant in late autumn. What tulips like is warm, dry summers alkaline soil. It is likely that they will be affected by aphids or a fungal condition called ‘tulip fire’ if there is too much moisture about. Because of their vibrant colors, it is well worth that they have a place in the garden.

If their natural habitat is approximated in the garden, then bulbs will usually do well. For instance, daffodils are meadow flowers, so like plenty of sun. Before the grass becomes too competitive, they will naturalize successfully in the lawn and flower early. The best that you can do is not mow for at least six weeks after the flowers die because the leaves provide food to the bulb for next years’ growth.

Woodland bulbs like bluebells and snowdrops will do better in a semi-shaded or a dappled sun position. Under deciduous trees, they also do well. You can actually plant spring-flowering bulbs near a well-used path or where they can be seen from a window to save trekking over soggy lawns to admire them.

Most bulbs can be grown successfully in containers, but need at least four inches ((10 cm)) of soil below them and 2-4 inches (5-10 cm) above. In order to prevent them from being accidentally hoed during a weeding session, it’s a good idea to plant bulbs in a pot and bury it in the garden. In case you have trouble with rodents eating your bulbs, then plant them inside a wire cage buried in the garden.

Growing easily and are quite tolerant are many bulbous varieties. But don’t forget to do your research. You can find some of the more unusual ones via mail order or on the Internet so take the time to look for them. You’ll be pleased with the result.

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