Hyacinths: Fragrant and Easy-to-Grow Spring Bulbs
Guide for Cultivating Hyacinths: A Simple Steps Approach
Hyacinths, scientifically known as Hyacinthus orientalis, are popular spring bulbs recognized for their alluring fragrance and wide array of colors, ranging from traditional shades like purple and pink to more unique ones such as white and mauve. These flowers make excellent additions to the front of garden borders for a vibrant spring display or to decorative pots placed near the house for a pop of color and scent. Additionally, they can be force-grown indoors for stunning, fragrant Christmas displays.
Below, readers can find detailed information on how to grow, plant, and care for hyacinths, as well as some useful tips on the best varieties to grow and where to purchase them.
Growing Hyacinths
To grow hyacinths, plant the bulbs into moist, well-drained soil in a full sun location between September and November, approximately 10cm deep and 8cm apart. It's essential to water the soil when it becomes dry. When planning pot displays, plant the bulbs more shallowly and closer together to prevent them from touching.
Planting Hyacinths Indoors for Christmas Displays
Forcing hyacinths for indoor Christmas displays can be an enjoyable experience. To achieve the best results, consider purchasing 'prepared' or heat-treated bulbs, as they will not require as much forcing compared to fresh bulbs. To force the bulbs, place them on a 5cm layer of compost so that they are close, but not touching. Cover them and store them in a cool, dark location for around 10 weeks, then move them to a bright, breezy spot with enough sunshine to bring on the flowers.
Caring for Hyacinths
When planting hyacinth bulbs, it's recommended to wear gloves to prevent skin irritation. Hyacinths work well in the front of spring borders with other spring bulbs like grape hyacinths (muscari) and tulips. In the house, grow them in a bright, airy spot with plenty of sunshine.
Where to Buy Hyacinths
A variety of reputable sources offer hyacinth bulbs for purchase, including Crocus, Thompson & Morgan, Van Meuwen, and Suttons.
Readers can find more information about growing hyacinths, including tips on problem solving and best varieties to grow, in the extended guide below.
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For more information on hyacinths and tips on growing, caring, and propagating them, continue reading below.
Growing and Care Tips for Hyacinths
- Wear gloves when planting hyacinth bulbs to prevent skin irritation
- Plant the bulbs in autumn in a sunny location with moist, well-drained soil
- Space the bulbs 8cm apart and plant them 10cm deep
- Water when the soil becomes dry
- For pot displays, plant the bulbs more shallowly and closer together
- When planting hyacinths indoors for Christmas, purchase 'prepared' or heat-treated bulbs that do not require as much forcing
- Store the potted bulbs in a cool, dark location for around 10 weeks before moving them to a bright, airy spot
- Grow hyacinths in pots with peat-free multi-purpose compost, loam-based compost, or a combination of both
- Add an annual dressing of slow-release fertilizer to help maintain the display's best appearance
- Force hyacinths for Christmas by covering them with an old blanket, straw, or thick newspaper and storing them in a cool, dry location for up to 10 weeks
- Remove the covering and place the hyacinths in a bright, cool spot when shoots appear
- Avoid placing hyacinths near heat sources when indoors, as they may grow too quickly and topple over
Plant Size:Height: 25Spread: 10
Growing Hyacinths in Glass Vases
Growing hyacinth bulbs in glass jars or vases without compost is an alternative method. To do this, use only heat-treated bulbs and place them in water just below where the bulb's base will sit. Avoid letting the bulb touch the water, and maintain a cool, dark location for around 6 weeks to allow roots to form. Once the main green shoot is about 7-10cm tall, move the glass to full light and observe the flower gradually develop. Turn the glass around by a few degrees each day to prevent the plant from leaning towards the light and falling over. Top up the water as necessary.
Pest and Problem Solving When Growing Hyacinths
One common problem when growing hyacinths indoors is that they may topple over due to heavy flower stems and excessive heat. To prevent this, grow hyacinths in cool, bright conditions, away from heat sources. In the garden, hyacinths may not be as floriferous after the second or third year. Encourage their return to their original flowering form by allowing foliage to die down naturally after flowering and giving the bulbs a good feed with a potash-rich fertilizer. If the bulbs have been in the ground for more than a couple of years, it's best to replace them.
Advice on Buying Hyacinths
- Purchase firm, healthy bulbs with no sign of mold
- Choose from a variety of colors, and consider purchasing from a specialist nursery for a greater selection of cultivars
Best Hyacinth Varieties to Grow
- Hyacinth 'Delft Blue': Striking blue flowers with a powerful fragrance; suitable for outdoor planting beneath shrubs and trees
- Hyacinth 'Amethyst': Soft-pink flowers with an intense scent; looks beautiful alongside pulmonarias and primulas
- Hyacinth 'Blue Tango': Double-flowered, blue relative to 'Royal Navy'
- Hyacinth 'Carnegie': Attractive white flowers that work well with muscari, chionodoxa, and forget-me-nots
- Hyacinth 'Woodstock': Deep purple flowers with a rich fragrance; pairs well with pale yellow daffodils and white anemones
- Hyacinth 'Fondant': Rose-pink flowers with a sweet fragrance that complements forget-me-nots and white or purple tulips
Depth:10
Readers can find sources to buy hyacinths online at Crocus, Thompson & Morgan, Van Meuwen, and Suttons. With the right care and variety selection, hyacinths can thrive in various environments and bring a dash of vibrant color to spring gardens.
For those who enjoy home-and-garden activities, incorporating hyacinth bulbs into both garden and home décor can enhance the overall lifestyle. Not only do hyacinths make beautiful additions to a home-and-garden setting through their alluring fragrance and wide array of colors, but they also provide an excellent opportunity for gardening enthusiasts to grow them in various ways, such as pots or glass vases placed near the house or specifically planned for indoor Christmas displays. Hence, it is essential for home gardeners to familiarize themselves with growing, planting, and caring for hyacinths, easily obtainable from reputable sources like Crocus, Thompson & Morgan, Van Meuwen, and Suttons.
