How to Care for Hyacinths?

How to Care for Hyacinth, the Fragrant Beauties of Spring

Hyacinths have been loved for centuries for their range of gorgeous colors and are also one of the most fragrant spring bulbs. Read our guide to find out everything you need to know to care for hyacinth.

How to Care for Hyacinth Outdoors

Plant your hyacinth bulbs in fall, before the first frost of the season. Most varieties are winter hardy down to zone 4. Choose a well-drained spot in sun or part shade and plant them 4" deep and 3" apart. In zone 4, plant 6 - 8" deep for extra protection from the cold. Plant with the pointed end upwards and water them well. Hyacinths contain oxalic acid which can sometimes irritate the skin so gloves are recommended if handling the bulbs over an extended period.

How to Care for Hyacinth After Blooming

Once your hyacinths have bloomed, remove the dead blossom and stalk. Leave the foliage to die back naturally so that the energy it contains can return to the bulb to help develop next year’s bloom. Don't over-water hyacinths or they may rot.

How to Care for Hyacinth Indoors

A question we're frequently asked about hyacinth bulb care is whether they can be grown indoors. The answer is yes, most definitely: a bowl of hyacinths in the living room or hall will perfume the whole house. Choose a variety such as Blue Tango, a beautiful double-flowered introduction. In September, plant the bulbs in a soil-based potting compost, leaving the pointed tips of the bulbs just above the surface. Water lightly then keep in a frost-free, dark area with temperatures around 40-50 degrees F. for 10 weeks. When the shoots appear, gradually increase the temperature and watering. Once the blooms have formed, bring them into the house where they will enchant you with the color and fragrance of spring. After blooming, they can be transplanted to the garden.

Now that you’ve learned how to take care of hyacinth, discover our fabulous single color varieties or opt for one of our hyacinth selections in a mix of shades for a spectacular spring display.