Hyacinth Bulbs, Blue Jacket (5 bulbs)
Ships from late September through November.
(Hyacinthus orientalis). This variety will invite beautiful shades of blue into your beds, borders and containers. What’s more, it has a stunning sweet fragrance. This is a classic variety that looks great planted en masse - clusters of 10 or even more.
- 70-85 days to maturity
- Plant in fall, before the first hard frost
- Requires cold to flower
- Bulb Depth: 4”
- Bulb Spacing: 3-6”
- Partial shade to full sun
- Frost Hardy: Yes
Growing Tips
To grow these beautiful blooms, plant them in well-drained, sandy soil. Choose a sunny location, though Blue Jacket can also tolerate partial shade. Wearing gloves when handling the bulbs is recommended to avoid skin irritation, as hyacinth bulbs contain oxalic acid.
When to Grow
The best time to plant Blue Jacket hyacinth bulbs is in the fall, just before the first hard frost. This allows the bulbs to establish their root systems before winter sets in. In northern areas, this usually means planting in September or October, while in southern regions, October or November is more appropriate. Blue Jacket is suitable for USDA hardiness zones 4 through 8, meaning it can survive winter temperatures as low as -30 F. In warmer areas they may benefit from refrigeration.
How to Sow and Plant
To plant Blue Jacket hyacinth, dig holes about 4 inches deep and space the bulbs 3-6 inches apart, with the pointed end facing upward. After planting, water the bulbs thoroughly to settle the soil, but avoid watering too frequently to prevent rot. Mulching the area can help maintain moisture levels and protect the bulbs from harsh winter conditions. If planting in containers, ensure the pots have adequate drainage to prevent waterlogging.
How to Grow
Once established, Blue Jacket hyacinths require minimal care. Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy during the growing season. Fertilize the plants at the time of planting and again in early spring with a balanced fertilizer to encourage strong growth and vibrant blooms. After flowering, deadhead the spent blooms but allow the leaves to yellow and die back naturally. This process helps the bulb store energy for the next year's growth.
How to Save
Wait until the foliage has completely withered and yellowed after blooming. Carefully dig up the bulbs and brush off any remaining soil. Allow the bulbs to dry in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area for a few days. Once dry, store the bulbs in a mesh or paper bag filled with peat moss or sawdust to prevent moisture buildup. Keep the bulbs in a cool, dark place, ideally at temperatures between 50-60 F, until it's time to plant them again in the fall.
FAQ
When does Blue Jacket hyacinth bloom?
It typically blooms in mid-spring, offering deep blue flowers that last for 2-3 weeks, depending on the growing conditions.
Can Blue Jacket hyacinth be grown indoors?
Yes, like other hyacinths, plant the bulbs in pots that are at least 6” deep, making sure the bulbs don’t touch each other or the sides of the pot – you can plant them fairly close together as long as they do not touch! Water thoroughly and keep them in a cool, dark place (basement or garage is good in cooler climates) for 10-12 weeks before gradually exposing them to light and warmth.
Is Blue Jacket hyacinth perennial?
Yes, with proper care, hyacinths are perennial and will return 3-4 years after planting. Allow the foliage to die back naturally after blooming to ensure the bulbs have enough energy to bloom the following season. Bulbs will reproduce underground and it may be necessary to dig them up and divide or thin them from time to time.
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