I want to plant some bulbs in a container so I have some pretty flowers in the spring to put on my balcony. I know I have to plant them soon, but I'm pretty clueless about actually getting things to grow. I have grape hyacinths, hyacinths, tulips, and daffodils. I live in Maryland, just outside DC. Balcony faces north. I know I'll have to bring the container in once winter arrives. How often, if at all, do I water and fertilize while it's inside? How much sun, water, and fertilizer should it get while it's sitting on my balcony looking like a pot of dirt? How cold can it get before I move it in? How warm does it have to be before I take it back out? What kind of potting medium?

HELP!
Won't the bulbs rot if they go through too many freeze/thaw cycles?

Perenniel bulb such as daffodiles & tulips will be the first to bloom in spring. Plant in potting soil (about 4-6" deep) & leave outside (they hibernate/rest in the winter). Don't water. Plant now, put outside & forget them until spring.

All of the answers are good. I was taught a trick with bulbs .Right before blooming season, put them in a brown paper bag, in the bottom of the fridge for 2 weeks,take them out and plant. The cold fools them into blooming. It does work.

Don't forget the bone meal when you plant them! A tablespoon or two in with the bulb should do you. This helps to promote a healthy root system.