General description
Hyacinth are one of the most fragrant and hardy of all spring flowering bulbs. The pleasant aroma is very desirable and can fill a room with just a few blooms. Hyacinth are a staple of the spring garden along with daffodils and tulips. The plants' stately appearance makes them prized in formal bulb plantings. They can be grown in containers, borders or planted in mass. Flower colors are abundant and include rich lavender, deep indigos as well as paler pinks, baby blues, yellows, reds and white. The bulbs are also easy to force requiring little effort.
- Great cut flower
- Fragrant
- Blooms in mid spring
- Can be forced indoors
Plant requirements
- Cold Hardiness: Zone 3 (-30 to -40°F)
- Light: Full Sun, 6+ Hours Direct Sun
Maintenance
Planting
- For best results, plant Hyacinth bulbs 4-6” deep, 4” apart.
- Hyacinths prefer full sun to partial shade.
- As with most bulbs, they require the soil to have proper drainage.
- Set the bulb in the hole, pointy end up, then cover with soil and press firmly.
- Water thoroughly after planting.
Fertillization
- Bulb growers recommend fertilizing in the early fall when the bulbs are putting out new roots and in the spring after blooming.
- The common formulation 9-9-6 is ideal for most types of bulbs.
Pruning
- Remove spent flowering stems to keep plants tidy and to redirect energy into the bulbs.
- Only prune dead or completely yellowed foliage as the leaves of bulbs act to collect energy for the next year’s display.
- Use proper tools such as sheers, hand pruners and garden scissors. Make sure all equipment is clean and sharp.
Watering
- Water bulbs thoroughly after planting in the fall.
- Hyacinths require little direct care and water. During long dry periods, additional water may be necessary.
Practical use
Beds and Borders, Mass Planting, Cut Flower, Fragrant.