How to Plant Hyacinth Bulbs Outdoors

Remove the grass, weeds and other plants from an area in full to partial sun. Dig the soil to the depth of 18 inches with a shovel. Remove any large sticks, roots and rocks that are uncovered. Break up large clumps of soil with the edge of the shovel.

Spread a 4- to 5-inch layer of organic material like compost or peat moss on the soil. Work the organic matter into the loosened soil. This increases the drainage property of the soil.

Remove the top 8 inches of soil from the planting area and place it in a wheelbarrow. Spread 10-10-10 slow-release fertilizer and bonemeal over the soil left in the planting area. Use 5 tbsp. of fertilizer and 2 cups of bonemeal for every 10 square feet. Mix these amendments into the soil in the planting area.

Place the hyacinth bulbs in the planting area spacing them 1 to 3 inches apart or six to nine bulbs per square foot. Make sure that the flat end of the bulb is against the soil and the pointed end is upward.

Replace the soil into the planting area. Do not compact the soil down over the bulbs. Rake the soil smooth and level. Sprinkle the water over the planting area to settle the soil.