Bulbs are the closest thing it’s possible for you to get to guaranteed color.

Thesespring-blooming bulbscan be planted anytime in autumn until the ground freezes.

These simple guidelines for how toplant spring bulbswill help you create a beautiful garden to enjoy next year.

Person planting a bulb in soil

Credit: Jacob Fox

For example, if a bulb is 3 inches tall, dig the hole 9 inches deep.

Ahand trowel works well to dig a holeat the appropriate depth for your bulb.

Some garden trowels even have measurements marked to help you know when you’ve dug deep enough.

Person planting multiple bulbs in soil

Credit: Jacob Fox

Place the bulb in the hole pointy side up, with the roots facing down.

Fill in the hole again to cover the bulb, then water to get it growing.

Or choose bulbs that animals tend to leave alone, such as daffodils,alliums, andsnowdrops.

Person using garden tool to plant bulbs

Credit: David Goldberg

Freshly-tilled soil will make it much easier to plant your bulbs.

Once you’ve prepped your soil, lay out your bulbs so they are at least 4 inches apart.

‘Pink Impression’ tulip variety

Credit: Sandra Gerdes