How to Grow Hyacinth Flower Bulbs

About Growing Hyacinth Flower Bulbs in Your Home Garden

A member of the Lilly family, bright and bold Hyacinth bulbs are quite the travelers. We commonly think of Hyacinth flowers as Dutch Bulbs, and therefore, originating in the Netherlands. But, they originated in Turkey. During the 1500s, traders brought them back to Europe and they found a perfect home in the soil and climate of the Netherlands. Later, they were introduced into the United States and quickly gained popularity. Now, you find Hyacinth growing and blooming just about anywhere.

Hyacinths are a beautiful and fragrant spring-flowering bulbs. There are many varieties of Hyacinths. Colors include purple, blue, white, pink, yellow, and bi-colors.

They are also popular as a forced bloom in winter, brightening your home or office. Keep active in gardening during the cold, snowy months by forcing your own. Why should greenhouses have all the fun!?! Forcing Hyacinth Bulbs

Hyacinth Bulbs Propagation

Hyacinth plants are grown from bulbs. Select quality bulbs, that have not dried out. The larger the bulb, the bigger the plant and flower next spring.

Every year the “mother” bulb that you originally planted, will produce baby bulbs. The babies grow below and to the side of the mother bulb. After a few years, the plants become overcrowded. They need to be dug up and replanted. After the plants have died back for the year, dig up the bulbs Then, separate and replant them.

And, make sure to save a few Hyacinth bulbs to force indoors in the winter months. They will brighten up your home with their beautiful and fragrant blooms. Forcing Hyacinth Bulbs

Garden Tip: Grow early, middle, and late-blooming varieties. As a result, you’ll enjoy these fragrant bloomers all spring long.

How to Grow Hyacinth Flowers

Growing Hyacinth plants is fun and easy. With just a little care, your bulbs will bloom into beautiful, fragrant flowers in early to mid-spring.

Plants the bulbs in the fall. Plant about two to four weeks before the ground freezes, to allow the roots to develop underground. Plant them 6-8 inches deep. Space plants six inches apart. Plant in groups for an artistic effect. But, don’t overcrowd them.

Sprinkle a little bulb fertilizer in the hole during planting. For established beds, spread the fertilizer on top of the soil. You can work it in lightly, but you risk damaging the bulbs.

Hyacinths will grow well in shade to full sun but do best in bright sunlight. We recommend staking the flower stems to avoid them bending or breaking in strong spring breezes.

After they bloom in the spring, allow the plants to grow until the leaves die off. They need time after blooming to store energy in the bulbs for next year. To remove the dead plant, either snip them off at the base or twist the leaves while pulling lightly. Now, the bulbs will sleep until next spring.

Do not disturb the area where the bulbs are planted. An errant shovel pushed into the ground, risks damaging the sleeping Hyacinth bulbs.

Ideal Soil pH: 6.5 – 7.5.