Bulbs: Hyacinths, Tulips, Crocus....question, 1 by SteveIndy

SteveIndy wrote:
Sue/defoe,

Most bulb offsets will not produce a flower the following year, especially if they're small. They can take two to five years of growth to flower again, depending on bulb type. Most hyacinths do decline somewhat in size and fullness as the years go by, but they should still flower. I have had hyacinths where the bulb sent up two stalks, both somewhat small, as the bulb began to divide. I would leave the offsets in the ground and see what happens. I do know that hyacinths prefer to be kept in soil that remains pretty dry, especially during the summer when they're dormant. Also, defoe, are you planting them deep enough? Hyacinths need some cold, but don't need the protracted period of cold that tulips do to bloom and return well, so they shouldn't be a problem in terms of temperature requirements. Here are some of mine planted about 7-8" deep in a raised bed, in their 3rd year.