To keep hyacinths indoors once their shoots have grown, place them in a bright, cool spot like a windowsill, ensure they are not near heat sources, and water them when the compost feels dry.
Keeping hyacinths indoors allows you to enjoy their beautiful blooms and fragrance up close. Based on expert advice, the process is straightforward once the initial growth stage is complete.
Follow these key steps to successfully maintain your hyacinths indoors after their shoots have emerged:
1. Location is Key
- Bring them indoors once the shoots have grown to a suitable size. This indicates they are ready for indoor display.
- Place your hyacinths in a bright spot. A windowsill is often ideal as it provides ample natural light.
2. Temperature Matters
- Choose a cool spot for your hyacinths. Cooler temperatures help the blooms last longer and promote healthy growth.
- Avoid placing them near heat sources such as radiators or heating vents.
3. Why Avoid Heat?
- As the reference states, placing hyacinths near heat sources can cause them to grow too quickly.
- Rapid growth can lead to the plants becoming leggy and weak, making them prone to toppling over.
4. Watering Guidelines
- Water as and when you need to. Don't water on a strict schedule, but rather observe the plant's needs.
- Typically, you should water when the compost starts to feel dry. Check the top inch or so of the soil.
- Ensure the pot has drainage holes to prevent waterlogging, which can rot the bulb.
Following these simple guidelines, based on the provided reference, will help you enjoy your indoor hyacinths throughout their blooming period.
Here's a quick summary table of indoor care requirements:
| Aspect | Requirement | Detail/Reason to Note |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Bright spot | e.g., Windowsill |
| Temperature | Cool spot | Avoid excessive heat |
| Heat Sources | Avoid (Radiators, vents) | Prevents rapid, weak growth & toppling |
| Watering | When compost feels dry | Water as needed, not on schedule |
| Stage | Bring indoors after shoots have grown | Not necessarily started indoors initially |
Remember that hyacinths are typically forced (chilled) before being brought indoors to bloom. The reference specifically addresses the care needed once they are inside and actively growing.
