· Do not cut off the ends of the stems of the Hyacinth; the bulb base is vital to the vase life
· Rinse the stems clean before using the flowers
· Optimal storage temperature: 38 to 41 F.
· Cut flower food is not necessary but can do no harm
Additional information:
Cut hyacinths are cultivated from the lighter bulbs, thus to avoid too heave stems. The flower is harvested when the first 'claws' (the individual flowers) become detached from the stem and the cluster acquires a distinct color. They are supplied to the Dutch flower auctions with the base of the bulb (and root remnants) still attached to the stem. These root remnants enable the flowers adequately to absorb water. If a short length is cut from the stem, the stem will produce slime, which retards the absorption of water. Unlike what is done with other cut flowers, it is therefore advisable not to cut the stem.
Another important condition is to thoroughly rinse the roots and stems before putting hyacinths on clean water. If hyacinths are mixed with other cut flowers, it is advisable to change the vase water every two days. A remarkable experience is that hyacinths and narcissi tolerate each other perfectly. Unlike its effect on other flowers, narcissus slime has no negative effect on hyacinths. Store and transport the hyacinths at 38 to 41 F. Their vase life is about seven days.
Cut hyacinths are supplied from November till the end of April. The peak supply is in February and March. They are supplied dry to prevent the stems from continuing to grow and thus result in different lengths. The flowers are sold in bunches of five stems. The average stem length is 33 cm, inclusive of bulb base. The best-cut hyacinths (prime quality) bear at least twelve claws per stem.
The hyacinth is native to West Asia, Turkey, Syria and Lebanon. Round about 1560 the plant was first cultivated in Austria. The flower symbolizes peace and power. For many Oriental poets the hyacinth is the symbol of simplicity. The expression 'hyacinth curls' refers to the stamens curling up as is clearly shown by wood hyacinths. The individual flowers, the 'claws', are included, for example, in mosaics, sprays and bridal bouquets.
