How to Plant Muscari (Grape Hyacinth)

Plant muscari bulbs in fall, 3–4 inches deep and 3–4 inches apart, in sun or part shade. They multiply every year and need almost no care.

How to Plant Muscari (Grape Hyacinth)
When to plant
Fall
Depth
3–4 inches
Spacing
3–4 inches apart
Sun
Full sun to part shade
Water
Moderate; let the soil dry slightly between waterings
Soil
Well-drained

Step by step

  1. Choose a spot in full sun or part shade with soil that drains well. Muscari look great along borders, in rock gardens, and planted underneath taller spring bulbs like tulips and daffodils.
  2. Dig holes or a trench 3–4 inches deep.
  3. Set the bulbs pointed end up, 3–4 inches apart. Plant them in generous groups for a solid ribbon of color.
  4. Cover, firm the soil, and water thoroughly.
  5. If you see grassy leaves poking up a few weeks after planting, leave them be. That is normal for muscari and does no harm.

After bloom

Snip off faded flower spikes if you like, but leave the foliage until it yellows on its own; it stores energy for next year. Muscari rarely need fertilizing, especially in reasonably rich soil. There's no need to lift them. Left in the ground, they multiply and spread into wider drifts every year.
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