MAKE the most of what is left of autumn to plant out bulbs, to ensure your garden is bursting with colour come springtime.

Most bulbs should be planted their own width apart, at two or three times their own depth.

However, in sandy soil or areas prone to severe frosts, you are wise to plant at four or five times the depth of the bulbs.

A few spring-flowering bulbs, nerines for example, need their tips to be at ground level.

You may opt to plant bulbs individually. But most of us prefer to plant in groups, to ensure a showpiece display come next March and April.

In well prepared soil make a planting hole, placing the bulbs (growth points uppermost) on the base. Where necessary place grit to improve drainage.

Draw soil back over the bulbs using your hands, being careful to not damaging or displacing them.

Resist the temptation to stamp down the soil with your fee, as this may also damage the bulbs. Instead, gently tamper down with the back of a rake. And don’t forget to mark the position of the bulbs, in case you dig them up in a forgetful flurry of winter activity in the garden.

Some bulbs, like snowdrops, benefit from being planted or divided when in growth. In these cases, make a hole wide enough to spread out the roots and deep enough to ensure they remain upright.

Many people love the sight of spring bulbs bursting across lawns and grassed areas.

Large bulbs, such as daffodils can be planted individually, using a bulb planter. Replace the cap of the turf, and push it firmly in place.

For small bulbs, make a H-shape cut in the turf with a lawn edger or spade, and carefully roll back the flaps. Place the bulbs in the soil, growth points uppermost. Score the underside of the turf flap to loosen the soil, and replace it gently back in position.