In the garden, hyacinths are total showstoppers, signaling the start of spring with their vibrant colors and incredible scent. But guess what? You don’t have to wait for the ground to thaw to enjoy them! You can actually bring that spring magic right onto your windowsill. Check out our guide on how to force hyacinths in a glass vase for a stunning indoor display.
Forcing Hyacinths in a Glass
Growing a hyacinth in a glass is a fantastic way to enjoy these blooms without dealing with messy potting soil or high-maintenance care. It’s basically a simple form of hydroponics. Here’s everything you need to know to get started.
Choosing the Right Glass
To do this right, you’ll need a specific type of vase often called a “hyacinth glass” or a “forcing jar.” These have a very distinct shape—think of it like a little trophy or an hourglass. There’s a wide, bulbous bottom for the water and a cupped top designed to cradle the bulb perfectly. You can find these at most garden centers or online.
What to Keep in Mind
The most important rule? The bulb itself should never actually touch the water. You want it sitting just a hair above the surface. This encourages the roots to reach down into the water without the bulb rotting. Also, keep in mind that these plants need a “winter” phase, so they’ll start off in a cool, dark spot.
Note: Growing hyacinths this way requires a bit of patience. It’s totally normal for it to take two to three months before you see a flower. Also, keep in mind that a bulb forced in water is usually a “one and done” deal—it likely won’t have enough energy to bloom again next year.
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these steps, and you’ll be enjoying those fragrant blooms in no time:
- Give your glass a good wipe-down with a clean cloth.
- Fill the bottom section with water.
- Place the hyacinth bulb in the top cup, pointy side up.
- Move the glass to a dark, cool spot (around 50°F or 10°C is perfect).
- Check the water level daily and top it off as needed, making sure the bulb stays dry.
- Once the flower bud starts to emerge, you can move the glass to a bright, warmer room to enjoy the show!
Pro Tip: If you run your glass through the dishwasher after the blooming season is over, give it a quick hand-rinse before using it again. This ensures any leftover detergent residue won’t harm your next bulb.
Tips and Tricks
Can’t find a spot in your house that’s dark enough? No worries! Just make a little “hat” out of construction paper or cardboard and pop it over the bulb. This creates a little blackout tent so the plant thinks it’s still underground, giving the roots plenty of time to grow before the flower wakes up.
