How to Take Care of Colorful Perennial Primrose

Primroses are bright, low-growing members of the genus Primula and grow in 500 different varieties. These small, hardy flowers bloom in a rainbow of colors, with wide, flat faces, lush green foliage and rapid expansion. These are woodland flowers by nature, and accordingly require cool, moist environments to bloom, grow and return. Put primroses in the right sites and follow careful maintenance schedules to keep them happy and blooming.

Organic compost/leaf mold/peat moss
Hand fork
Mulch
Pruning shears

Instructions

- 1
  Plant primroses in early spring, just after the last frost of the season. These woodland plants do best with cool, moist planting times, and withstand cooler springtime temperatures.
- 2
  Find a location with filtered or partial sun, quick drainage and plenty of air circulation. Primroses always need some form of shade, and burn in harsh all-day sun. If you don't have shady areas, plant them in sites with morning sun and afternoon shade.
- 3
  Amend soil to give primroses moist, loose, woodland-like soil. Dig 5 to 6 inches of organic compost, leaf mold or peat moss into the top 5 to 6 inches of natural soil. The amendment provides nutrition, holds moisture and increases drainage.
- 4
  Plant primroses at 6 to 12 inches in the amended bed, in holes deep and wide enough for their root systems. Press amended soil firmly around each plant to secure them in the bed.
- 5
  Maintain consistent watering for primroses, which must never be allowed to go dry. Give the plants 2 inches of water every four to five days, and lay 1 to 2 inches of organic mulch over the soil to maintain moisture.
- 6
  Deadhead the primroses as blooms fade to encourage repeat blooming. Cut off infected leaves as they appear in order to minimize fungal diseases.

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