How to Rebloom Potted Hyacinth Bulbs Outdoors

Hyacinth bulbs gather energy from nutrients in soil and bright sunlight, and use that energy to produce the next year’s blooms. It is very difficult to re-create optimal conditions when forcing bulbs indoors, and when planted outdoors, forced bulbs don't have enough energy to bloom the following season. In a year or two they'll produce small, short-lived flowers, and by the third season the bulbs should have enough stored energy to make a good showing. But they may never equal the size and brilliance of fresh bulbs. For best results, plant the bulbs outdoors in a location with full sun or partial shade and well-drained, organically rich soil.

Hand trowel or bulb planter
Bulb fertilizer
Mulch

Instructions

- 1
  Leave the bulb in the pot until the foliage dies back naturally. This allows the bulb to absorb energy from the fading foliage.
- 2
  Remove the bulb from the pot once the foliage dies back and pulls away from the bulb easily. Remove the foliage, and set the bulb aside in a cool, dark place to dry for a day or two.
- 3
  Dig a hole 4 to 6 inches deep using a hand trowel or bulb planter. Work bulb fertilizer into the soil at the bottom of the hole, following the label instructions.
- 4
  Place a bulb in the bottom of the hole, and fill the hole with soil. Press gently with your hands to remove air pockets.
- 5
  Plant the next and each additional bulb in the same manner, spacing them 3 to 6 inches apart.
- 6
  Cover the bed with 2 to 3 inches of mulch after planting. This insulates the soil to prevent repeated freezing and thawing. Once flowers emerge, mulch helps keep the soil evenly moist and prevents mud splatters during heavy rains.

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