Soft-pink buds burst into a cluster of perfumed fuchsia florets around Christmastime, covering the stems of Hyacinth ‘Pink Pearl.’

These specially prepared bulbs are designed to flower indoors during the darkest depths of winter, when colour and scent are most welcome in the home.

Despatched in September, the bulbs should be planted shallowly in bowls, baskets or containers, with the green tip and section of bulb just above soil level and will bloom in 10-12 weeks.

‘Pink Pearl’ is also ideal for forcing in water. Place a prepared bulb in the top of a hyacinth vase, with the base sitting above, but not touching water level. Roots will rapidly form, seeking out the water below – a miraculous process which is fascinating to watch.

For Christmas flowers, keep your containers in a cool, dark place until the beginning of December when they can be brought out into the light.