Primula / Polyanthus / Primrose

Primula Description

Primroses are one of the earliest flowering plants of the year that are usually grown as biennials for bedding purposes. Primula, or polyanthus, have been used extensively by gardeners since the 1800's.

There is a huge range of different variations of primula available most of which are low growing and produce small attractive flowers in a wide array of colours.

Cultivation of Primula Plants

Primula seeds should be sown under glass in spring until mid summer. Germination of these flower seeds can be unpredictable and may take some time.

Seeds that do germinate successfully should be pricked out when the young plants are large enough to handle. Pricked out seedlings should be planted out in a cold frame in suitable potting compost.

In the autumn plants should be placed in their permanent flowering position approximately 30cm apart from each other. The site chosen for permanent planting should be partially shaded and the soil should be good and moisture-retentive.

Primula Pests and Diseases

Primula, or polyanthus, can be susceptible to attack from slugs and snails that eat the flowers.