READER’S QUESTION

WHAT is the best hyacinth variety for fragrance. Are hyacinths fully hardy outside?

Mr & Mrs G. saunders, Buckinghamshire. ACCORDING to most experts, the hyacinth with the sweetest and best fragrance is delft Blue. Tried and tested since its introduction in 1944, this is still one of Holland’s most popular varieties.

grown in a bowl and kept in a warm room, the fragrance is sweet. The scent lasts throughout the life of the flower spikes. Their shade of blue — neither too dark nor pale — is perfect for the shape of the flowers.

As for hardiness, I’ve grown delft Blue unprotected in the garden for years. Like all hyacinths, a single bulb becomes an clump over time.