Hyacinthoides non-scripta

Germination

Sow under cool glass or outside at any time. A greenhouse or cold frame is ideal, if sowing outside cover seed tray with glass to prevent mouse attack. Sow 5-10mm deep into moist, well-drained seed compost in a deep box or tray. Cover with compost or grit. Regardless of when the seeds are sown they are unlikely to germinate until they have has a period of 6-8 weeks of cold weather, usually appearing the spring following sowing. Grow on undisturbed for 2 years, allowing the bulb to form. Plant bulb, when dormant, 10cm deep in final flowering location.

Growing

Prefers a humus-rich, fertile, well-drained soil in full or partial sun. Woodland margins are ideal. When bulbs have formed plant up to 10cm deep with 10cm spacing in final flowering location in summer or autumn when the bulb is dormant. Planting is best in drifts where the bulbs can remain undisturbed for several years.

Cultivation

Propagate by seed or divide offsets while the plant is dormant. Best left to naturalise. Requires little attention.