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Step 1
Examine the bulb for signs of moisture. Flower bulbs should feel dry to the touch. Mold forms when bulbs are stored in too damp a location. Left to accumulate, mold can kill the bulb. Look for signs of an unwanted velvety substance on the bulb; usually in a white or cream color. For tiny mold spots, rub the bulb thoroughly with potting soil, and then plant as usual. If the bulb is excessively moldy, throw it away.
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Step 2
Feel the heft of the bulb in your hand. Healthy bulbs have a solid feel. If you pick up a bulb that seems lightweight compared to its counterparts, it's likely a bad perennial bulb.
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Step 3
Squeeze the bulb to check for firmness. If the bulb is crumbly or mushy, it is in poor condition and possibly already dead. Throw the bulb away.
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Step 4
Look for the eye of the bulb, also known as the center of growth. If the eye appears firm, dry and solid, remove as much of the damaged bits as possible and plant the bulb. If damage is not excessive, it's likely to bounce back.
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Step 5
Search the bulb for aphids, which are tiny creatures that feed on plants. If you spot small bugs, buy different bulbs. If you already own the bulbs and they appear to be in reasonably good condition, you can rub the aphids off in potting soil (throw that potting soil out) and then plant them in your garden. They're likely to be less hearty than other flowers, but odds are they'll still come up.
