The pleasures of hyacinths, in myth and in the garden

o7”Today as in the time of Pliny and Columella, the hyacinth

flourishes ... “

f7--Edgar Quinet

o7”Hyacinths hinder young persons from growing ripe too soon.”f7

--John Parkinson

The ancient Greek legend of Hyacinthus is a passionate story of

friendship, jealousy, treachery and remembrance. An extraordinarily

beautiful youth who was adored by Apollo, Hyacinthus was murdered by

Zephyr, a jealous rival.

The myth recalls that wild hyacinths sprang and flourished from

the blood of the slain boy. These plants always bend toward the

ground, as a reminder of Apollo’s eternal grief.

The hyacinth was introduced in the 16th century to Europe from

Turkey. It quickly became the latest continental plant craze and has

remained a popular garden plant over the years. The original four

colors of red, blue, white and yellow were soon joined by 2,000 named

cultivars. Hyacinths are a colorful and fragrant presence in the

spring. They can even be forced to bloom in the winter if one is in

need of cheering.

When purchasing hyacinths, be aware that the size of the flower

spike is directly related to the size of the bulb. The largest bulbs

should be reserved for use in containers. Smaller bulbs are fine for

use in the garden. Flowers tend to be smaller in succeeding years but

will maintain their same color and fragrance. Bulb food is the answer

to regain maximum flower size, as hyacinths are very greedy feeders.

Hyacinths look best when planted in clumps in the garden, not in a

huge mass of color. They may be planted among low-growing perennials

or bedding annuals. Bulbs of a single color beneath a specimen tree

are spectacular in the spring. Since hyacinths have heavy and

delightful scents. Their location may be dependent on your reaction

to the possibly cloying scent. Plant larger bulbs six inches deep,

smaller bulbs at four inches.

Hyacinths in containers should be planted in a potting soil, with

the tip of the bulb near the surface. Initially, the bulbs should be

kept in the shade and covered with thick mulch. When the tops show,

place the plants in full light.

Hyacinths also force well in water in special hyacinth glasses,

the bottom filled with pebbles and water. They mustn’t be hurried

until well rooted. Keep them in a dark, cool place until roots fill

the bottom of the glass. Once the top growth appears, they may be

moved into light and then placed in a sunny window when the leaves

are uniformly green.

Like many bulbs, hyacinths have tiny barbs on their outside

surfaces that can be irritating, so always wash your hands after

handling. Plants growing in wet soil may occasionally wilt and die

from either bacterial soft rot or fungus rot. The bulbs become soft

and should be discarded. If these bulb rots become widespread after

several years of continuous planting, do not replant with hyacinths

for several seasons.

Apollo’s love for Hyacinthus was based on the boy never achieving

“ripeness.” In other words, he desired the impossible -- unchanging

youth. As for me, although older, I am blessed with my unchanging

love for Catharine. See you next time.

* Steve Kawaratani is happily married to a local writer, Catharine

Cooper, and has three cats. He can be reached at (949) 497-2438.