Can I force hyacinths or bluebells on rocks (like paperwhites)??

I've got another question about forcing bulbs...

I know that the typical/Victorian way to force hyacinth bulbs is to suspend each one in its own tall, narrow-necked vase. But I think that's a bit silly given that they grow quite happily when clustered in the soil. So, assuming I don't do that, would it be possible to grow hyacinth (or bluebell) bulbs by placing them on a bed of small stones, spacing them widely, and carefully maintaining the water level so only the roots get/stay wet? Or, if using stones won't work, then what about simply putting the bulbs in soil? ...I can do that, right??

PS: if I decide to force either type of bulb, should I add a bit of alcohol to the water to stunt their growth (which is often suggested for paperwhites)??? Or is it unnecessary because they're not as tall & top-heavy as paperwhites?

Any advice would be appreciated.
Thx.

 

If they can be forced in a hyacinth glass they can be forced in another container. However, bunched together in a low bowl there might be a problem with them falling over, in different directions.

 

Thx. That's what I thought. I may try to set up the rocks so the bulb(s) are well supported and well spaced. Otherwise I'll either grow'em in soil or use bluebell bulbs instead.
Now if I could only find some pre-chilled bulbs.... ;)

 

Maybe try a web search to see if you can find pictures of hyacinths in similar containers to those you are considering.

 

Actually I already did that before posting and didn't come up with much (despite various keyword combinations). BUT while I was writing a reply to your post, I just tried ooooone more set of keywords and, lo & behold, I found a site that doesn't just vaguely refer to growing hyacinths on stones - and it sounds like this might actually work...
So thanks RonB.