How to Grow Fabulously Fragrant Hyacinth

Hyacinth bulbs are planted in the autumn and then bloom beautifully the following spring. Each year I look forward to getting these bulbs into the ground as it gives me something incredibly beautiful to look forward to after a long, cold winter.

1. Hyacinths look best in the garden when planted in clusters of 10 or more bulbs. In comparison to other spring flowering bulbs, hyacinths tend to be on the shorter side, so plant them towards the front of the border, or by a walkway where they can be appreciated early in the spring season. If you're planning to grow for cutting, then long narrow rows are most efficient.
2. Select a planting site with full sun and well-draining soil. Work in some compost or an organic fertilizer, such as bonemeal, to improve soil fertility.
3. Dig out your planting area to a depth of 4 to 5 inches. Set bulbs into planting hole with pointed side up. Back fill with soil and water throughly if soil is dry. For cut flowers, planting the bulbs an inch or so deeper will result in better stem length.
4. Unlike tulip bulbs, hyacinth bulbs are not as tasty, so squirrels and other garden visitors are less likely to be dug up or eaten.
5. If you want your hyacinths to perennialize and return year after year, it is important it is important to allow the foliage to die back naturally after flowering. This will allow the bulbs to replenish their food stores and produce flowers the following year.