These plants are often grown in containers to control their spread.

Light

Grape hyacinth does best in full sun but tolerates partial shade.

These are ideal areas for planting grape hyacinths, as well as many other spring bulbs.

Blue grape hyacinth flowers growing from dirt ground

The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova

Soil

For the best results, plant grape hyacinth in any well-drained soil around your property.

Additionally, grape hyacinth is not at all picky about soil’spH level.

This helps to prevent bulb rot issues throughout the months that they’re not in bloom.

Royal blue grape hyacinth flowers closeup

The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova

Grape hyacinths typically need water about once per week, depending on how recently it has rained.

Temperature and Humidity

Grape hyacinths do nicely in all climate conditions within theirUSDA hardiness zonerange.

Because grape hyacinth bulbs are inexpensive, it pays to buy larger, more premium bulbs.

Patch of royal blue grape hyacinth flowers in dirt ground with thin leaves

The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova

Removing the green seed pods after spring flowering helps the plant produce more flowers the following year.

Propagating grape hyacinth from seed can take years before the plant flowers, so division is most commonly preferred.

Division can be done in the fall, while propagation via seeds is best accomplished in the spring.

Grape hyacinth stems and leaves with royal blue flowers in sunlight closeup

The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova

This species does not grow well in soggy soil, so choosing the right pot is key.

Because grape hyacinth spreads easily, the plant may outgrow its pot during the growing season.

How Long Does Grape Hyacinth Bloom?

Grape hyacinth closeup with light blue flowers

The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova

Grape hyacinth blooms for about three to four weeks.

What Do Grape Hyacinth’s Flowers Look and Smell Like?

Grape hyacinth is named for its flowers that resemble small grapes and grow in clusters.

Grape Hyacinth Muscari ‘Valerie Finnis’

‘Valerie Finnis’The Spruce / Grant Webster

How to Force Grape Hyacinth to Bloom Indoors

Grape hyacinth can be forced toflower indoorsin containers.

For blooms in late January through March, chill the bulbs in September through October.

Moist potting soil is preferableplace the bulbs about 1 inch apart with the exposed tips pointing up.

However, improper sunlight and watering may prevent the plants from growing healthy.

Yellow Leaves

Grape hyacinth leaves may yellow if the plant is overwatered.

Allow the plant to dry out, then water when the top inch of soil feels dry.

If the foliage looks unattractive, it’s possible for you to remove it from the plant.

Yes, grape hyacinths come back every year.

Grape hyacinths spread very quickly if left unchecked.

These plants are commonly spread by seeds, but they can also spread underground.

Grape hyacinths grow best when planted in full sun and well-drained soil.