How to Make Hyacinths Bloom

Lay the bulbs in a flat tray and store them in a cool, dry location, such as an attached garage for three weeks. This cooling process mimics fall growing conditions, preparing the bulbs for deep winter.

Fill clay, plastic or ceramic pots half full with the potting mix. Place one bulb in a 4-inch pot or several bulbs in larger pots. Set the bulb gently in the pot with the pointed end up. Fill the pot loosely with potting mix so the tip of the bulb protrudes.

Water the bulbs so the soil is evenly moist and place the pots in a refrigerator or garage where temperatures are between 30 and 45 degrees F. Place a label on the pot indicating when to remove it from cold storage -- typically 10 weeks later. Water the bulbs occasionally during this dormant period.

Remove the bulbs from storage after eight to 10 weeks. White roots are growing from the holes in the bottom of the pots and you may notice green growth emerging from the top. Place the bulbs in a cool, shaded location where temperatures are below 60 degrees F. After two or three days, expose the bulb to full sun to encourage new growth and blooming. Continue to water it as needed.

Set the flowering plant in a prominent location, away from direct sunlight, once it begins to bloom. After flowering, cut back the stalk, but leave the foliage. Plant the bulbs in the garden in spring or fall once the foliage is dead. Forced hyacinth bulbs will bloom in the garden within two years, but buy fresh bulbs for forcing every year.