Hyacinth
Hyacinthus orientalis
Quick Care Guide
Prune: Remove spent flower spikes and yellowing leaves
Sunlight: Prefers full sun to partial shade
Water: Moderate; keep soil moist during active growth
Fertilize: Feed at planting and after blooming
Leaves: Strap-like, glossy green leaves
Flowers: Fragrant, dense flower spikes in early to mid-spring
Pruning
Hyacinths require minimal pruning. After the flowers fade, cut off the flower stalk to prevent the plant from using energy to produce seeds. Allow the foliage to die back naturally, as this helps the bulb store energy for next year’s bloom. Only remove leaves once they’ve turned yellow and withered.
Watering
During their active growing season (spring), keep the soil evenly moist but not soggy. Good drainage is crucial to prevent bulb rot. Once the foliage dies back in late spring or early summer, reduce watering significantly and allow the bulbs to dry out as they enter dormancy.
Leaves
Hyacinths produce upright, strap-like leaves that are smooth and glossy green. These leaves typically appear in early spring and persist for several weeks after flowering, gradually turning yellow as the plant goes dormant.
Sunlight
Hyacinths grow best in full sun to partial shade. Ideally, they should receive at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight each day. In warmer climates, a bit of afternoon shade can help prolong their blooms.
Fertilization
Feed hyacinths with a balanced fertilizer (10-10-10) at planting time in the fall. After they bloom in spring, apply another light dose to support bulb development for the next season. Avoid fertilizing once the foliage begins to die back.
Flowers
Hyacinth flowers form dense, upright spikes covered in small, star-shaped blossoms. They are highly fragrant and come in a variety of colors including blue, purple, white, pink, red, and yellow. Blooming occurs in early to mid-spring, making them a favorite for spring gardens and containers.