A guide to growing hyacinths

Varieties of hyacinths

Hyacinths belong to the same family as asparagus and come in every colour of the rainbow. Oriental Hyacinth is the most common type, but there are heaps to choose from.

• Pink hyacinths: China Pink, Johanna, Orange Lion
• Yellow hyacinths: Yellowstone
• Dark blue/blue hyacinths: Sky Jacket, Blue Trophy
• Orange hyacinths: Orange Lion
• White hyacinths: White Pearl, Louvre
• Purple hyacinths: Purple Star, Splendid Cornelia

Growing conditions

Light

Hyacinths love the sun but won’t sulk if they get a little shade either. Plant them in groups – it not only looks great, but they can huddle together for protection when harsh weather hits.

Temperature

Hyacinths are happiest in in mild to cool, sunny climates, although warmer weather brings out their fragrance. Somewhere between 15–20°C is best. Expecting frost? Just add some mulch to protect the bubs.

Soil

Go for well-drained, nutrient-rich, weed-free soil. Add compost or a bulb fertiliser for happy and healthy roots and blooms.

Growing hyacinths outdoors

When to plant hyacinths

Late summer or early autumn is prime planting time. Hyacinths need a burst of cold to fully develop.

Planting hyacinths in the garden

1. Pick a sunny or semi-shaded spot.

2. Dig a hole 20–25cm deep for big bulbs.

3. Pop your bulbs in with the pointy end up.

4. Top with soil, water, and add mulch.

Growing hyacinths indoors

Preparing the soil for indoor hyacinths

Growing indoors? Pick a compact variety for pots and use nutrient-rich soil, such as a mix of compost and peat-free potting mix.

Choosing the right pots for indoor hyacinths

Go for a medium-sized pot with drainage holes. Give your hyacinth room to grow - don’t plant them too close together.

Planting hyacinths in pots

To grow in pots:

1. Fill the pot with soil.

2. Pop your bulbs in, pointy ends up!

3. Top with soil and water.

4. Pop the pot in a cool, shady spot over winter. They need things to be slightly chilly to develop properly.

5. By late winter, you can move them to a warmer spot.

Hyacinths care

Feeding and watering

Feed your outdoor hyacinths with Scotts Osmocote^® Controlled Release Fertiliser: All Purpose in early spring for healthy leaves and flowers. Start feeding as soon as you see new shoots.

Indoor hyacinths need less food. Regular watering is more important but avoid overwatering. Let the soil dry out between waterings, and water from the bottom to avoid rot.

Protecting hyacinths during winter

You might be tempted to bring your hyacinths indoors during winter, but hyacinths need a bit of cold to bloom properly.  Mulch your outdoor hyacinths to keep them cozy on frosty nights. For potted hyacinths, just pop them in a protected, cool spot, like your garden shed.

How to water hyacinths

Hyacinths need regular watering, especially during their peak growing and flowering period. To avoid issues like root rot or fungal infections, follow these tips:

• Outdoor hyacinths: Keep your soil moist but not soggy. Be especially careful if it’s raining a lot.
• Indoor hyacinths: Water from the bottom popping the pot in water. Wetting the bulbs or leaves can lead to rot.

If you accidentally overwater your plants, allow the soil to dry out slightly and keep an eye out for signs of stress, like wilting or sad leaves.

Common pests and diseases in hyacinths

While hyacinths are generally hardy, they can attract a few pesky pests and diseases. Here’s what to watch out for:

Grey mould

This mould often appears as a greyish coating on the leaves and flowers, especially during wet weather. Space your plants far apart to give them plenty of room to breathe, and snip off any mouldy looking leaves as they appear.

Hyacinth mosaic virus (HMV)

Yellow streaks, deformation, and stunted growth could mean a case of mosaic virus. Sadly, there’s no cure. Ditch the infected plant to keep your other plants safe.

Bulb rot

Usually caused by overwatering. This is why well-draining soil and drainage holes in pots is so important.