This may be an old and well tried technique, but it only came to me recently! If you want to plant a lot of small bulbs, try using an electric or battery drill fitted with a flat spade bit / wood boring bit 1 ½” or bigger if you can get one. The drill must be a variable speed one as you need to 'feel' your way slowly through the soil to avoid stones, roots, etc. The slower the better and when you reach the depth you need stop drilling and gently pull out. A really nice clean hole is made without disturbing other plants in the area.