Container Gardens & Spring Time Bulbs

I would like to plant a few pots with spring time bulbs on my patio in Surrey that faces North. When is it a good time to plant for spring, and do I have to protect them in the winter months?

 

If you will let them flower naturally, you can pot them as late as November but if you plan to force them you will want to start soon.
I think it is a good idea to cover the pots loosely so they can breathe but enough so they are protected from constant rain and other elements. If the cover keeps them a little dark that is good, imo. With the soil and the cover the bulbs should be ok but the new roots can be frozen if frost is too severe. A little extra cover for extra cold nights will do.
A little bulb food and something to keep the bugs from eating them can help.

 

Thanks so much for your help!