Dutch Hyacinth Hyacinthus orientalis 'Paul Hermann'

Water

Hyacinth, or Hyacinthus orientalis 'Paul Hermann', should be watered generously during its active growth period, especially when the top inch of the soil feels dry to the touch. In general, this equates to watering approximately every 7-10 days, possibly more frequently in hotter, drier conditions. Use tepid water to thoroughly soak the soil until excess water drains out of the bottom of the pot. Over the course of a month, you may end up using between half a gallon to 2 gallons of water depending on pot size, environmental conditions, and plant size. Always avoid letting the plant sit in water as this can cause bulb rot.

Light

Hyacinths prefer bright, indirect light. The best spot for a Hyacinth, such as the Hyacinthus orientalis 'Paul Hermann', would be in a well-lit room near a window that receives morning light or filtered afternoon sun. Direct afternoon sunlight can be too intense and may scorch their leaves, so indirect sun is ideal for maintaining vibrant blooms and healthy foliage.

Temperature

Hyacinths thrive in a temperate environment, with ideal temperatures for the Hyacinthus orientalis 'Paul Hermann' ranging between 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit. They can tolerate temperatures as low as 35 degrees Fahrenheit and as high as 75 degrees Fahrenheit for short periods. Avoid exposing them to temperatures below freezing or excessively high temperatures over 80 degrees Fahrenheit since extreme temperatures can damage the plant.

Pruning

Pruning Hyacinth plants is primarily focused on removing spent flower stalks to prevent seed formation, which benefits bulb rejuvenation for the following season. After the Hyacinthus orientalis 'Paul Hermann' flowers have faded, cut the flower stalks back near the base without damaging the foliage. Allow the leaves to remain until they yellow, as they provide energy to the bulb. Best time for pruning is when the flowers have wilted but the leaves are still green.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

The best soil mix for Hyacinth, specifically the 'Paul Hermann' variety, should be well-draining and fertile with a slightly acidic to neutral pH, ideally between 6.5 to 7.0. A mixture of loamy soil with compost and a bit of sand for improved drainage can be very beneficial for the health and blooming of the plant.

Repotting

Hyacinths, including the 'Paul Hermann' variety, generally do not require frequent repotting and can be repotted every 2-3 years. It is best to repot them after the flowering season when the foliage has died back, using fresh soil mix to rejuvenate the nutrients available to the bulb.

Humidity & Misting

Moderate humidity is suitable for Hyacinths 'Paul Hermann', with levels around 40-60% being ideal. They do not require excessively high humidity and can thrive in the average home environment where the humidity is stable and not extremely low.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place in well-lit area, avoid direct sun, keep soil moist.

• Outdoor

  Plant in partial shade, protect from strong winds, water regularly.

• Hardiness zone

  4-8 USDA

Life cycle

Hyacinth 'Paul Hermann' begins its life cycle when a bulb, typically planted in the fall, lies dormant until early spring. With sufficient chilling over the winter, the bulb sprouts, sending up a stem and leaves, producing energy through photosynthesis. The plant then blooms, showcasing its fragrant flowers, which come in a range of colors from white to deep purple. Once the flowers have been pollinated, typically by bees or other insects, they will fade and the plant will divert energy to seed production. As temperatures rise in late spring or early summer, the foliage yellows and dies back, signaling the plant's entry into dormancy once again. The bulb rests underground, storing energy for the next growing season when the cycle repeats.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring

• Propogation: The common hyacinth, specifically the Hyacinthus orientalis 'Paul Hermann', is typically propagated through division of its bulbs. The best time to propagate hyacinths using this method is in the late summer or early fall, after the leaves have died back and the plant is dormant. To propagate by division, carefully dig up the bulbs and gently separate the smaller bulblets from the base of the parent bulb. These offshoots are usually found around the perimeter of the main bulb. They should be replanted at a depth of about 6 inches (15 cm), spacing them about 4 inches (10 cm) apart to allow for adequate room for growth. By the following spring, these bulblets should develop into mature flowering plants, carrying the charming traits of 'Paul Hermann'.