Grape Hyacinth - Muscari armeniacum A welcome splash of blue in early spring when little else has emerged, these ornamental perennials are reliably cold hardy. Gently self-seeding when happy, naturalizing in almost any soil type. Low-maintenance plants that deliver big-time results. Perennial in USDA zones 3-8, ornamental 1-3 racemes with dense clusters of urn-shaped florets that resemble a mini cluster of grapes, growing 6-8” tall, vivid blue to deep purple. Blooms in April-May for about 3 weeks. Prefers lean, well-draining soil, where it’s neither too wet or too dry. After flowering they require no feeding and little watering. Overly rich soil produces more foliage and less flowers. These bulbs don’t fare well if allowed to sit in water over winter. Sow outside: in the fall. Seeds need a cold period to germinate. Sow inside: possible, but not recommended. Seeds need stratification to germinateSeed depth: 4-5”Seed spacing: 1” Sow seeds at any time, covering them very thinly with compost or grit, keeping the seed pot in a cool, well-lit spot outdoors. Artificial heat is not needed and can prevent germination so be very patient as many species will only germinate in the spring after chilling or freezing in the moist seed pot in the winter. Care: Leaves die back and wither after setting seeds, and plants go dormant in the summer. Pruning and fertilizing is unnecessary. Transplanting: small bulbs can dry out easier than bigger ones, plant early in the fall so they get enough moisture. In beds and containers, lift and divide clumps every 3-5 years, or as needed to prevent crowding and rejuvenate clusters.Loosen soil around the edges of plants. Lift bulbs up from below. Gently separate bulbs and replant the largest ones.
