How deep should I plant bulbs?

General rule: plant at 2-3 times the bulb height. Daffodils and tulips: 15 cm. Crocuses: 8 cm. Alliums: 15 cm.

When should I plant spring bulbs?

Plant most spring-flowering bulbs in September-November. Tulips are best planted in November to reduce tulip fire disease risk.

How many bulbs per m²?

For a good display: daffodils 40-50/m², tulips 50-60/m², crocuses 100-150/m². For naturalising, use fewer bulbs in random patterns.

Can I plant bulbs in pots?

Yes. Plant at the same depth as in the ground. You can layer different bulbs (lasagne planting) for a longer flowering display.

What is lasagne planting?

Lasagne planting layers different bulbs at different depths in the same pot. Plant large bulbs (tulips) deepest, medium (daffodils) in the middle, and small (crocus) near the top for months of colour.

GardenCalcs

Bulb Planting Calculator — How Many Bulbs Do I Need

Work out bulb quantities, planting depths, and spacing for displays.

Planting Area

Bulb Type

Planting Density

How We Calculate This

Bulb count is based on the recommended spacing for each type, with density adjustment.

Formula: Bulbs per m² = (1 ÷ spacing²) × density multiplier. Total = Area × Bulbs per m².

Planting depth follows the standard rule of 2-3× bulb height for most species.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Last updated: February 2026

All calculations are estimates based on standard gardening guidelines. Results may vary with soil conditions, climate, and plant varieties.