Planting hyacinth bulbs in glass jars
Growing hyacinths in glass jars is a beautiful and easy way to add a touch of spring to your home at any time of the year. This process, called forcing bulbs, lets you bring the beauty of these flowers indoors, even when it's too cold for them to grow outside. And, with a little bit of care, you can grow gorgeous hyacinths without any soil!
Selecting the right bulbs
For the best results, start with strong, healthy hyacinth bulbs. Look for bulbs that are hard and don't have any mold or damage. Choose bigger bulbs because they will have more flowers, making your display more beautiful. Many garden centers sell pre-chilled bulbs in the fall that are ready for forcing. These are perfect for this process.
Preparing your glass jar
Select a glass jar that is both tall enough to hold the hyacinth bulb and allows the bottom of the bulb to slightly touch the water. Fill the jar with water up to a point just below where the bulb will be placed. The aim is to ensure that only the roots are in water. The base of the bulb should be kept dry to avoid rot.
The chilling period
Hyacinth bulbs need a cold period to trick them into thinking they've experienced winter before they'll bloom. If your bulbs haven't been pre-chilled, pop them in your fridge (not near fruits though) for 10-12 weeks. Temperatures should be between 35 degrees Fahrenheit (that's about 2 degrees Celsius) and 45 degrees Fahrenheit. Don't freeze them though, that's too cold and can hurt the bulb.
Caring for your hyacinth
Once you've set your chilled bulb on its jar and roots start growing into the water, keep it in a cool place out of direct sunlight until you see shoots. Then shift it to a brighter spot to stimulate blooming. Change or top up with fresh water as required, ensuring only enough for roots to reach without submerging the bulb.
Enjoying your blooms
As your hyacinth blooms indoors, remember to turn your jar every few days to ensure even growth; plants naturally lean towards light sources. Avoid placing it near heating vents or drafts, as these conditions can reduce bloom longevity. With the right care, you can expect to enjoy the fragrant flowers for up to two weeks before they naturally wilt.
