Wildlife value of Hyacinth — an unexpected bonus

I planted Hyacinth primarily for ornamental reasons. What I didn't anticipate was the wildlife it would attract. increasing clump size year on year when well established seems to be particularly appealing to bees and butterflies during the main growing period.

I grow it in a cut flower garden for fresh indoor arrangements which allows me to watch the activity up close. earliest crocuses and snowdrops emerging in late winter is the most active period for wildlife visits. adding grit to the planting hole in heavy clay soils is important for keeping the plant healthy enough to flower well and provide that value. squirrel and mouse predation on newly planted bulbs is the thing to watch — it reduces flowering and therefore wildlife visits if left unchecked. A plant that earns its place twice over.