Apart from late Tulips I think it is best to leave spring bulbs out of the ground – the end of November is too late even though you can buy very cheap bulbs.

Nevertheless I will plant some bulbs in pots.

• The trick is to get some decent roots as soon as possible. The flower will already be in the bulb and need support and encouragement to excel in bloom.
• Plant bulbs in a pot, water and keep in a cool dark spot.
• Bring out into a cool greenhouse, window box or under the house eaves after Christmas. Provide maximum light.
• I have just planted a lot of species crocus bought on the cheap. All I needed to do was avoid damaging the early sprouting corms.
• Do not use rich compost or add any fertilizer.

Gardeners Tips Favourite Links

• The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS)
• Alpine Garden Society (AGS)
• BBC Gardening
• See our sister site Gardening Products for tips and ideas on Garden products new and old.
• Thompson & Morgan search for seeds and plants

Amaryllis can be planted until March – see planting instructions