Hyacinths

More popular than either tulips or daffodils 140 years ago, their heady fragrance and range of color make them a favorite in the spring. An old Persian proverb says that if you have two loaves of bread, you should sell one in order to buy hyacinths.

For best showing year after year, plant bulbs deep in rich well-drained soil in full sun and fertilize each fall. After the first year, the florets are slightly smaller and not as dense. Grow them in the border in close bunches or meandering drifts. Because a natural compound in the bulbs can cause “hyacinth itch”, wear gloves during planting, and wash with cold water and plain soap after handling the bulbs.