Primrose flowers also known as
Primula polyantha normally bloom in early spring, and they offer a variety of
form, size, and color. Primrose flowers are suitable for use in garden beds and
borders and also in containers. If the plants are given the proper growing
conditions, the plants will multiply every year adding stunning colors to the
landscape. The plant bloom throughout summer and even in some areas the plant
will continue to delight the fall season with their outstanding colors. Some of
the primrose flowers seen in gardens are Polyanthus hybrids, which vary in
color from white, cream and yellow to red, orange and pink. Also there are blue
and purple primrose flowers. Primrose flowers prefer damp, woodland-like
conditions.
How to grow Primrose Plants
Actually growing this plant is easy, they
are quite hardy and adaptable. The primrose plant can be found in most garden
centers and nurseries. Make sure you look for the primroses that are healthy in
appearance, if possible the one with unopened buds. Also this plant can be
grown from seeds with an equal mixture of soil, sand and peat moss. You can
plant them indoors or outdoors depending on the time of year and the climate in
your area. Usually the primrose seeds are sown indoors (also outdoors in cold
frame) during winter. Once the seedlings have obtained their 2nd or 3rd
leaves you can easily transplant them into the garden. The cuttings can also be
taken from some of the varieties during summer.
How to care for Primrose plants
The plant needs to be planted in lightly
shaded areas with a well-drained soil, if possible the soil should be amended
with organic matter. You can set the primrose plants about six to twelve inches
apart and four to six inches deep. Make sure you water them thoroughly after
planting. You can add a layer of mulch around the primrose plants to help retain
moisture. Make sure you continue to give the primrose plants thorough watering
throughout the summer months, and also about once a week or more during periods
of drought. The plants also need a light application of organic fertilizer
throughout the growing season. You can keep the primrose plants to continue looking
their best by regular pruning of dead leaves and spent blooms. If you actually want
to collect the seeds of your primroses make sure you wait until late summer or
early fall before taking the seeds. Make sure you store the seeds in a cool,
dry place until the following planting season or sow the seeds in a cold frame.
Some of the problems with Primrose plants
One of the common pests affecting primrose
plants are slugs and snails. The slugs and snails can be controlled with
non-toxic slug bait placed around the garden. The primrose plants can also be
attacked by spider mites and aphids but can be sprayed with soapy water. The plant
can also be prone to crown rot and root rot if the plants are not getting
enough drainage. You can easily fixed this by amending the soil with compost or
relocating the primrose plants to a well-drained place. Also too much moisture
can make the plant susceptible to fungal infections. You can easily prevent
this by using good watering habits and also an adequate spacing between plants.
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