The unbelievable fragrance of hybrid hyacinths would be enough reason to grow them, but when you factor in the gorgeous colors, the large blooms and how easily they grow, hyacinths are a must for everyone. As an added bonus, hyacinths force extremely well. Forcing is a process that makes a plant bloom out of season. With hyacinths, this means we can trick them into blooming in the middle of our long, long winters, reminding us what spring is all about. With hyacinths, you even have the option of soil-less forcing.

There are special glasses called hyacinth jars that are shaped like an hourglass with an upper area for the bulb and lower section for the water and the roots. All hybrid hyacinths will force in water, but those marked for forcing will perform more reliably. Choose heavy, firm bulbs that will easily fit into the opening in your glass. Some bulbs are too big, so be careful.

Understanding the Process
It is important to understand that all hyacinth bulbs will need a long period of cold while actively developing a root system. Too often people misunderstand and end up very disappointed. All hyacinths need a cold period (around 40 degrees) of 12-14 weeks to develop an adequate root system before being allowed to bloom. When you buy prepared or pre-chilled hyacinth bulbs, this doesn't eliminate the need for cold treatment… it just shortens it to 9-10 weeks. Hyacinths that are not given adequate time to root will send up a bloom, but it never develops fully and usually opens when barely out of the bulb.

Planting the Hyacinths
To start the forcing process, simply fill the glass with water to where the level will be just beneath the bottom of the bulb. The water should not touch the bulb or you may develop some rotting problems. Adding a heaping tablespoon of activated charcoal to the water will help keep it fresh longer. If the water begins to look cloudy or greenish, gently drain it out and refill, adding more charcoal and a teaspoon of bleach.

Cooling the Hyacinths
After "planting" the bulb in the jar, it will need to spend the required amount of time at around 40 degrees in the dark. For most homeowners, the perfect place is the refrigerator. One possible problem is that ripening fruit gives off a gas that can damage the flower bloom, so you will need to avoid keeping fruit in the refrigerator for the duration. Check the water level occasionally and watch the root system grow.

Blooming the Hyacinth
After the bulb has developed a good root system, move it to a warm location, keeping it out of direct sunlight. Blooming will begin approximately 6 weeks from the time the first green sprouts appear. Once the bud begins to show color, you may want to place it back in the refrigerator at night to prolong the bloom. After the flower has withered, it is best to discard the bulb, saving the glass to start the process again.
Note: Hyacinth bulbs can cause an irritation and itching, so handle the bulbs carefully, or use a plastic glove.