No matter where you buy your bulbs, whether it be at Bachman's or another source, here are a few tips that can help you make the best selections. If you feel unsure, don't hesitate to ask for assistance. Sales consultants will be glad to show you what is a good bulb and what to avoid.

The bigger the better! This is one case where it pays to buy the largest, best quality bulbs you can afford. This can be confusing since tulips are graded by overall size, but a top-size of one variety may not be as large as the top-size of another. When choosing daffodils, they are graded according to size and weight. Some varieties have several segments to the daffodil bulb, referred to as double-nose or triple-nose. To make things easier, Bachman's buys number one bulbs that have been graded as top-size available in that variety for the season. Smaller bulbs are often available as an affordable alternative or for naturalizing.

Quality bulbs should be relatively heavy for their size. Avoid bulbs that are lightweight or soft, as they may not develop properly. When dealing with thousands of bulbs, occasionally a bulb of lesser quality will sneak by. Don't hesitate to set it aside if you find one.

Avoid bulbs with deep cuts. It is almost impossible to harvest bulbs without a few nicks and that doesn't affect the quality, but deep cuts can be a site for decay. Loose skins are not a problem either.

Avoid bulbs that show signs of mold or rot, especially if it is at the basal end of the bulb. A blue, powdery fungus is a sign that the bulbs have gotten wet at some time.

Be as gentle as possible with your bulbs to avoid bruising.

Store bulbs somewhere cool and dry until the appropriate time for planting, opening the bags or boxes to increase air circulation.

©Bachman's 2007