Hyacinths

A fragrant and romantic addition to garden areas

Hyacinths are best planted in November or December while soils are still slightly warm and air temperatures have fallen. They require a well drained soil. Our heavy clay may result in failure unless it is amended.

The enjoyable fresh fragrance and the clear opaque colors in rainbow hues have made hyacinths a joy to behold in spring gardens since the early days of printed history.

The parents of our present day hyacinths were prevalent in ancient times as a wild flower in regions of the eastern Mediterranean region through Asia Minor, Syria and into Persia. It was first introduced to Europe through Italy in 1592 and a few years later into Holland. Since then, their distribution has become world wide. Hyacinths, like other spring flowering bulbs, are favored because they herald the beginning of spring.

One year of bloom…

In the south, hyacinths, for the most part, can be counted on for one year of excellent bloom. Beyond that, the flowers become smaller and sometimes do not emerge more than an inch from the ground. This is due to our short, warm spring seasons and the heat of summer. Hyacinths require a long, cool spring and a moderately cool summer in order to replenish the food in the bulb.

Preparing the soil…

Prepare clay soils by plowing or spading as deep as possible - 12" preferably. Thoroughly work in 3" of rotten manure, peat moss, or finely ground pine bark and 1" of coarse sand. Some gardeners believe the addition of bone meal in advantageous. It has its drawbacks of odor and if dogs are around they will dig in soils where bone meal has been added.

Hyacinths should be planted with the tip of the bulb 5" from the surface. Once planted, the bulbs are ready for a long winter nap. Around mid-March, depending on the weather, the foliage and flowers push through the earth to herald the beginning of spring.

For more information on hyacinths, contact your local county Extension office.