A layered bulb pot can bring successive flowers to a small outdoor space. The key is to plan the bulb selection and depth together, leaving enough room for the whole arrangement. Start with the container and the flowering sequence you want, then follow a species-appropriate planting guide.
Plan the container and aftercare
The RHS guide uses a substantial pot with drainage holes and layers of spring-flowering bulbs. It also explains what happens after the display: flowers fade, but the foliage should be allowed to die down naturally. Decide where the pot can sit during that less decorative stage before making it the centre of a small patio. Follow the original guide for planting depths and the details appropriate to your chosen bulbs.
Match the layers to flowering time
Gardeners’ World describes placing later-flowering bulbs such as tulips lower in a container and earlier bulbs such as crocuses above them. That is a way to extend the display, not a reason to cram in every available bulb. Make a short list by flowering period and check how much depth each requires. Use the linked planting explanation alongside the bulb packaging; this overview is a planning aid, not a universal depth chart.
gardenersworld.com · Gardeners’ World · Layered bulb planting