Today 
Overview
Hyacinth bulbs are widely available and will produce a broad spectrum of colours. Whatever their shade, hyacinths look spectacular planted on their own in a rustic terracotta pot. It's a quick and easy job for autumn that will have stunning rewards in early spring.
Do it:
October - November
At its best:
February - March
Takes just:
30 minutes
How to do it
-
Spread a good layer of horticultural grit in the bottom of your container to help the compost drain efficiently in wet weather. -
Mix together loam, compost and sharp sand and spread a 5cm layer over the grit. Gently firm in so there are no air pockets. -
Discard any bulbs that look damaged or diseased then place the remaining bulbs evenly in the pot about 5cm apart. -
Continue to add bulbs until the container is full and gently push them down so that they are all in good contact with the container. -
Cover the bulbs with a 10cm layer of your compost mix. The bulbs should grow into a fragrant display if watered regularly.
"After planting, keep the hyacinth bulbs moist during the growing season and they should reward you with flowers over a long period of time."
"When buying bulbs to plant outdoors, avoid those that have been specially treated to flower indoors at Christmas."
