Primula/Primrose

Today I want to talk about primroses.

First of all being in a completely new zone and
new country I was somewhat surprised to see all
the primroses in bloom at this time of year.They of
course are not the only plant in bloom,however;they are
in abundance compared to the other plants such
as roses.
I have had to completely re evalute my theories on
growing them to suit the needs of not only North America
but of the United Kingdom as well.





Primula/Primrose

Primroses are perennials that bloom in a wide range
of purples,yellows,reds,pinks and whites.They
are a low growing plant that bursts up in early spring
and in some places late fall.
There are two kinds of primrose:

English primrose: This plant is the smaller plant
and usually have 1 1/2 inch wide flowers.These plants
are available in a wide range of colors.

Japanese Primrose:

This is the easiest of the two plants to grow.They
feature slightly wrinkled, light green leaves and
flowers in brilliant shades of red and white.


Where to plant

Both varieties do best when planted in moist, shadowy
areas, with rich, slightly acidic soil.
The North side of your house is usaully the shadiest
and dampest of areas,thus probably the best location
for the primrose to be planted,however; beneath foilage or
under the canopy of a tree are 2 other great spots
for it.

Perfect partners

These plants go well in the perennial bed with
deep blue forget-me-nots, fiery red Bleeding Hearts
and coral pink Astilbes. They also go well under
Rhododendrons,Azaleas and Camellias.
To brighten dark corners plant groups of primroses
with Ferns,Hostas and other foilage plants that
can tolerate moist,low light areas.English primrose
which is the earliest blooming of the species
go well with Tulips. Mass planting them can be
just as beautiful, whereas, they are so vibrant
with color and taken into account when there are
not so many other plants blooming mass planting
can definately add color to a dead area of your garden.

Some tips for growing

If growing seedlings indoors, make sure pots are kepts
degrees f or the seeds may not sprout.

Use potted primroses in a windowbox.Remove pots in
the summer after they stop blooming and transplant into
the garden.

The fungal infection leaf spot can affect Primroses in the
cool, moist climates that they prefer.Look for dark brown
lesions on yellowing leaves.Remove and destoy any infected
foilage.Dig up and divide Primroses to aid in air circulation.

Keep Primroses well watered in heat.


I have many ideas lately and am planning many things for my write ups for now and the future.
That is it for today.
Happy Gardening.
Tanya