Table of Contents
Hyacinths are beloved for their fragrant, colorful blooms that brighten gardens in spring. Proper care and timely planting are essential to ensure healthy growth and vibrant flowers. This month-by-month guide will help you manage your hyacinths throughout the year.
January
In January, focus on planning your hyacinth planting. If you haven’t already, order high-quality bulbs for the upcoming planting season. Keep bulbs stored in a cool, dry place until it’s time to plant.
February
February is ideal for forcing hyacinth bulbs indoors if you want blooms early. For outdoor planting, prepare your garden beds by clearing weeds and adding compost. Hyacinth bulbs can be planted outdoors in late February or early March, depending on your climate.
March
Plant hyacinth bulbs outdoors as soon as the soil is workable. Choose a sunny location with well-drained soil. Plant bulbs about 4-6 inches deep, spacing them 3 inches apart. Water thoroughly after planting.
April
Hyacinths will begin to sprout in April. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Fertilize lightly with a balanced fertilizer to promote healthy growth. Watch for pests like aphids and remove them promptly.
May
In May, hyacinths are typically in full bloom. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage the plant to focus energy on bulb development. Allow the foliage to yellow naturally, as this helps the bulb store nutrients for next year.
June
As flowers fade, continue to water the plants and remove any spent flower stalks. Do not cut back the leaves until they have turned yellow and withered, ensuring the bulb stores enough energy for the next season.
July
In July, hyacinth foliage should be fully yellow and dead. You can now gently remove the leaves and prepare the bulbs for dormancy. If you wish to lift bulbs for winter storage, carefully dig them up and clean off excess soil.
August
August is a good month to store your hyacinth bulbs in a cool, dry place if you plan to replant them later. Alternatively, leave bulbs in the ground if your climate is mild and the soil drains well.
September
In September, prepare your garden beds for planting. If you lifted bulbs, inspect and discard any that are soft or damaged. Replant healthy bulbs outdoors in early fall, about 4-6 inches deep.
October
October is ideal for planting hyacinth bulbs in cooler climates. Ensure the soil is well-drained and rich in organic matter. Cover bulbs with soil and water thoroughly. Mulching can help protect bulbs from early frosts.
November
In November, continue to mulch your garden to insulate the bulbs. If planting late, ensure the bulbs are well-covered to prevent freezing. Avoid disturbing the soil or bulbs during this period.
December
December is a resting period for hyacinths. Focus on planning next year’s garden layout and ordering new bulbs. Keep mulch in place to protect bulbs from winter cold, especially in colder regions.