Hyacinths Caribbean Dream

The dreamy colours change from mauve to silver blue as the flower matures. The large florets crowd the strong stems.
Seriously perfume powered, Hyacinths are one of the most fragrant of all the spring bulbs. Combined with their dynamo colours, they really are something special. They are so wonderful that it is a shame not to plant a few each spring!

When you plant your Hyacinths, it is a good idea to put there where you can enjoy their heady scent; such as along a pathway, in a window box or by your favourite garden chair. In pots you can even bring them indoors to enjoy the delicious fragrance.

In the garden, choose a spot shaded from the hot afternoon sun, or beneath deciduous trees. We recommend preparing your soil prior to planting your Hyacinth bulbs. Dig through some well rotted manure a few weeks before you put your bulbs in. This increases drainage and adds nutrients to the soil. The bulbs are best planted around Mother’s Day, after the soil has cooled.

Plant your Hyacinths 10-15cm deep in humus rich, moist, well drained soil. The bulbs should be pointy end up and watered in. When planting Hyacinth bulbs it is a good idea to wear gloves as the bulbs have a natural defence in the fragile skin that flakes off the dry bulb. This can irritate sensitive skin and cause itching, resist the urge to itch if you are affected and simply wash with warm soapy water.

If you are planting your Hyacinths in pots, plant them so the bulbs are almost touching, this will create a nice, dense display. After planting, position the pot so it is in a cool, shaded spot (for around the first eight weeks or so). As well as reducing water loss from pots this allows the flower heads to develop slowly, so they don`t grow too quickly and flop, or emerge only part way from the foliage. As the buds emerge, move them into a lightly shaded area, gradually bringing them into the sunshine. Once the blooms are out, you can leave them where they are or take them indoors, or wherever you like to enjoy them.

In the garden, you can try mixing Hyacinths with other perennials or bulbs for an extra splash of colour. The more you plant, the better the display and the stronger the perfume will be to enjoy.

Supplied as: Bulbs