Work out how many bulbs you need for a bed from its size and spacing, on both a square grid and a staggered (triangular) layout.
Result
How to use this tool
Measure bed length and width in feet.
Use the spacing on the bulb packet, in inches.
Compare the square-grid and staggered counts.
Buy 5–10% extra for gaps, damage and failed bulbs.
Formula & worked example
A 10 ft × 10 ft bed at 6-inch spacing needs 400 bulbs on a square grid, or 462 staggered.
Limitations — read this before you rely on it
Counts assume even spacing over a rectangular bed. Irregular beds, mixed varieties with different spacings, and edging losses will change the true count.
Frequently asked questions
Most tulips are planted 4–6 inches apart; large daffodils 6 inches, small crocus 3–4 inches.
Rows are offset so bulbs sit in a triangular pattern, fitting about 15% more bulbs per bed.
A common rule is 2–3 times the bulb height; check the packet for the variety.
No. Measure only the planted bed area, not paths or lawn.
Yes, the counts are rounded up, and buying a few spares covers losses.