How to Transplant Primulas

Most primulas (Primula spp.) -- commonly called primroses -- flower during the spring or early summer, providing blue, orange, red, purple or yellow flowers. Primroses grow as perennials in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 7 through 9, although you can also enjoy them as annuals in any climate. Partially shaded locations with rich, moist soil result in the healthiest plants and the most flowers. Transplant seedlings or nursery plants outdoors in early spring after the danger of frost is past.

Compost
Power tiller or shovel
Trowel
Mulch

Instructions

- 1
  Till a 2-inch layer of compost into the top 6 inches of soil in the garden bed using a power tiller or by turning it in with a shovel. Water the site thoroughly after amending the soil so it is moist to a 6- to 8-inch depth.
- 2
  Squeeze the sides of the primrose pot gently to loosen the soil and roots inside. Turn the pot on its side and slide the root ball out into your hand. Handle the primrose by its topmost leaves or the root ball to avoid damaging the stems.
- 3
  Dig the planting hole with a trowel so it is twice as wide but the same depth as the root ball. Set the primrose in the hole with the crown of the plant -- which is where the stems emerge from the roots -- even with the soil surface. Fill the hole in with soil.
- 4
  Space multiple primroses 6 to 8 inches apart in all directions. The plants will spread to fill in the empty space over the course of the growing season.
- 5
  Water the newly transplanted primroses until the top 6 inches of soil feels moist, providing about 1 inch of water. Spread 2 inches of mulch over the bed to suppress weeds and retain the soil moisture. Primroses require about 1 inch of water weekly.

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