Can hyacinths bloom in the year they are planted?
Holding the plump hyacinth bulbs, many gardening enthusiasts have such an expectation—whether this harbinger of spring can bloom in the same year? After the petals fall, what will happen to this bulb filled with vitality? Let's unveil the growth code of hyacinths through scientific care methods.
Bulb quality determines blooming speed
Mature bulbs bloom in the same year
Healthy bulbs with a diameter of 12 centimeters or more are like treasure troves storing energy, and they can complete the differentiation of flower buds in 70-80 days at a constant temperature of 18°C. When purchasing, pay attention to whether the epidermis is intact and gently squeeze to exclude soft rot. These high-quality bulbs, combined with weekly phosphorus-potassium fertilizer irrigation, can ensure the smooth emergence of flower spikes.
Patience is required for the cultivation of offshoots
Small offshoots produced by division need to go through a three-year growth period, accumulating starch in the first year, forming scales in the second year, and only becoming capable of blooming in the third year. It is recommended to use sandy cultivation soil, maintain 20% humidity for storing dormant bulbs, and add bone meal during potting every year to promote development.
Climate in the north and south affects blooming time differences
The centralized heating environment in the north keeps the indoor temperature stable at 15-18°C, combined with 6 hours of sunlight daily, can make the flowers bloom around the Spring Festival. In the humid south, it is recommended to use the refrigerator pre-cooling method, wrapping the bulbs in newspaper and storing them in the refrigerator for 45 days before planting, to accurately control the blooming in March.
Post-blooming care for multi-year enjoyment
Precise pruning to retain nutrients
Immediately cut the flower stem to 2cm from the base after the flowers wither, and retain the leaves to continue photosynthesis. When 2/3 of the leaves naturally turn yellow, cut the withered part flat along the soil surface, at this point, the bulb has completed nutrient regression.
Scientific storage to activate potential
Dug bulbs should be soaked in carbendazim for 20 minutes and then dried in the shade, wrapped in sawdust and placed in a 4°C environment. Alternatively, wrap them in cotton cloth and store them in the fruit and vegetable preservation section of the refrigerator, checking monthly for mildew. During storage, the bulb will undergo low-temperature vernalization to accumulate essential hormones for reblooming.
Bulb refrigeration activates secondary growth
Bulbs that have gone through a complete dormant period can achieve a blooming rate of 75% or more in the following year. It is recommended to use the shallow planting method, leaving 1/3 of the bulb above the soil surface, combined with weekly supplementation of boron-containing water-soluble fertilizer to effectively prevent flower stem shrinkage. The reblooming plant's flower quantity is about 60% of the first bloom, and the ornamental effect can be maintained through division.
From the first cluster of inflorescences in early spring to the annual cycle of blooming, hyacinths illustrate the survival wisdom of bulbous plants with their lives. Mastering cold treatment techniques and key points of nutritional management, even a thumbnail-sized offshoot will eventually grow into a stunning floral spirit nurtured by time.