A beautiful garden plant that pleases with variety beautiful flowers, early flowering and unpretentious character, it is known as perennial primrose. Photos with detailed instructions for growing primrose can be easily found on websites dedicated to gardening. Aesthetic qualities combined with ease of care make this flower increasingly popular among both housewives and landscape design specialists.

What does a garden perennial primrose look like?

Primroses are beautiful perennial primroses.

Primrose flower is a perennial herbaceous plant belonging to the Primrose genus. IN natural conditions it grows in northern Africa and central Asia, Europe, and the Middle East. The plant has a powerful root system, which makes up its underground part. The leaf rosette, located in close proximity to the rhizome, consists of simple or dissected, sessile or petiolate leaves of an oblong-oval shape. There are varieties with wrinkled or dense, leathery leaf blades of gray-green color. At first glance, it may even seem that the leaves are covered with a slight coating of wax. But the greatest decorative value is not bright foliage, and colorful primrose flowers. They are attached to tender stems on elongated leafless peduncles. The arrangement can be single, but more often the flowers are collected in inflorescences of pyramidal, spherical, umbrella-shaped or bell-shaped. Tubular buds with a funnel-shaped or flat bend abundantly cover the bush, impressing with their beauty and variety of colors. At the end of flowering, fruits form on the plant in the form of a cylindrical or spherical polysperm.

Primrose perfectly adapts to environmental conditions and can be cultivated at home in Russia.

In addition to the garden, primroses grow wonderfully at home in pots

Types and varieties of garden perennial primroses

The family Primroses (also found as Primulaceae) has more than five thousand species, making it one of the most numerous in the world flora. It is interesting that species not described by scientists are found in nature to this day. Huge variety different varieties allows gardeners to realize their wildest ideas and create amazing flower arrangements on their site. Naturally, before purchasing, you should familiarize yourself with the distinctive features of each species to make sure that you can create the necessary conditions for the flower. In addition, knowing all the necessary information, choosing a hybrid with the desired color, shape of inflorescences and leaf color will be much easier. Let's get started!

There is a huge variety of species and varieties of primroses

Primula vulgaris (stemless)

This species is distinguished by a short rhizome consisting of thick, dense, cord-like roots. The leaves are lanceolate, their width reaches 6 centimeters and their length is 25 centimeters. They can partially remain on the plant during wintering.

The common primrose has pale yellow or snow-white single flowers with a purple throat, which are located on short peduncles (6-15 cm). Petals are dicotyledonous. During the flowering period, which begins in March, the bush is densely covered with colorful buds, so the stemless primrose looks like a festive bouquet. The most popular varieties:

• Virginia - snow-white buds with a yellowish throat;
• giga white - has white flowers;
• cerulea - rich flowers with a bright yellow throat.

Primrose stemless has a very short stem, which is where its name comes from.

It is an evergreen herbaceous perennial with thick, leathery leaves of a rich green color with a slightly toothed border. They are covered with a slight powdery coating and can be oval or oblong. The flowers of the auricular primrose are yellow and reach up to 2 centimeters in diameter. Note that gardeners value hybrid varieties of this species more, as they have excellent decorative properties. For example, there are varieties whose buds are painted in several bright colors at once (Jonathan), and also have an unusual pattern on the petals. As a rule, flowers are formed on delicate peduncles (10-25 cm), have a yellowish throat and are collected in umbrella-shaped inflorescences.

Primula aurica or auricola - has large bright rosettes of flowers

It is a natural hybrid, which is based on species such as primrose auricular and stiff-haired. This is a fairly compact herbaceous perennial, growing up to 15 centimeters in height. The obovate leaves are collected in a miniature basal rosette (2-8 cm), have finely toothed edges, and are also densely covered with tiny grayish villi. The leaf blade is colored on the outside green color, and on the inside it has a fawn color; the entire surface of the leaves are covered with a powdery coating. The flowers are located on erect, powerful, mealy stalks, the length of which varies from 5 to 15 centimeters. Inflorescences in the form of apical umbrellas consist of 15-20 flowers directed towards the top.

Flowering lasts from early May to June. Hairy primrose is a frost-resistant plant that can withstand temperatures as low as -29 °C.

Primrose pubescent is a hybrid of auricular and stiff-haired primrose, which has a beautiful rosette with small villi on the petals along the edges

The plant is a bush-like perennial with large spherical inflorescences, which consist of a large number of snow-white, purple, burgundy or lilac flowers. The inflorescence can grow up to 10 centimeters in diameter, and the diameter of the flowers is 0.5-2.5 centimeters. It is interesting that at the beginning of flowering, the oblong, lanceolate, wrinkled leaves of light green color are practically not visible, and the peduncle rises above the bush by only 2-3 centimeters. After several weeks it grows, and the height of the inflorescences increases to 20-25 centimeters. Simultaneously with the peduncle, leaves also grow, which can increase from 5-7 centimeters (at the beginning of flowering) to 20 centimeters. During the period of fruit ripening, the length of the peduncle varies from 30 to 50 centimeters, and the leaf blade increases to 30-40 centimeters. Note that fine-toothed primrose blooms from April to mid-June. The stems and foliage of the plant are covered with a specific powdery coating, so experts do not recommend moistening them.

Primrose fine-toothed has spherical inflorescences of small flowers on a peduncle, which grows as the plant grows

Japanese primrose is a special variety, as it is somewhat different from its relatives. Firstly, it is characterized by rather late flowering, which begins in June, and not in April-May. Secondly, its inflorescences have a shape uncharacteristic for primroses, which breeders have dubbed candelabra. They are located on an oblong peduncle that can reach up to 40 centimeters in length. Colorful whorls, each containing 5-7 small buds, gradually begin to bloom on it. In adult primroses, the peduncle can have up to 6 tiers. It is interesting that when the upper inflorescences just begin to bloom, seeds are already forming and ripening on the lower ones.

This species is a long-flowering species, since its flowering period is on average 30-40 days. This sets it apart from other varieties and makes it so widely popular among gardeners. By the way, a powerful, long peduncle allows you to use Japanese primrose for cutting and forming bouquets.

Japanese primrose is a candelabra late species of primrose that begins to bloom in May, but gradually

Primula florinda

Represents a perennial herbaceous plant, which is distinguished by abundant flowering and unusual bell-shaped buds. Bright leaves are collected in dense rosettes, above which drooping rich yellow flowers, collected in neat inflorescences, rise on long stalks. Naturally, the perennial requires a lot of effort to form buds, so experts recommend thinning it out annually. The bush should be trimmed so that no more than 3-4 powerful rosettes remain on it. If you properly care for your primrose florinda, it will thank you. long flowering, lasting from June to August. Also worth noting is the captivating aroma of flowers spreading throughout the garden. Please note that in winter the delicate flower will need shelter to protect it from frost and gusts of wind.

Primula florinda is a bell-shaped species of primrose that thrives near bodies of water.

Early flowering varieties are of particular interest to gardeners, one of the representatives of which is Primrose Voronova. The plant is quite compact bush, growing up to 20 centimeters. It has ovoid basal leaves and delicate pinkish-purple flowers that form beautiful umbrella-shaped inflorescences. Flowering begins in April and continues until mid-May. This graceful flower will be an excellent addition to other hybrids.

By planting several varieties on your site that bloom at different times, you can enjoy the amazing flowering of primrose throughout the spring and summer.

Primula Voronova - an early small variety of the species Primula acaulis

Primrose small

This low-growing variety will undoubtedly appeal to lovers of miniature plants. It looks great both as an independent plant and as an addition to flower arrangements from other varieties. Under natural conditions, the small primrose is found in rocky areas of Central and Southern Europe. The height of an adult bush is only 5-7 centimeters, and the width is 10-12 centimeters. The flowering period falls in mid-May to late June. Please note that the flower should be transplanted into humus-rich, well-drained acidic soil, otherwise a small number of flowers will form on the bush.

Small primrose is a miniature variety of primrose that most often grows in rocky areas

Primrose Julia is one of the most popular varieties cultivated in Russia, Belarus and Ukraine. Its main advantage is long and abundant flowering, which lasts from April to May. Grow and propagate this variety even novice gardeners can do it, because it is unpretentious, hardy and resistant to low temperatures. Its jagged leaves are rich green. Typically used as a ground cover or border plant to crowd out unsightly weeds.

Primula Julia is a small ground cover species of primrose from Transcaucasia, which is unpretentious and blooms for a long time

It is a herbaceous perennial with a short horizontal rhizome. Spring primrose has oblong, wrinkled, obovate foliage. There are species with vaguely crenate or serrated leaves, forming a loose basal rosette, from the middle of which a bare peduncle emerges. Five-membered, dimorphic yellow flowers reach up to 15 millimeters in diameter. They droop slightly to one side, have a ten-toothed calyx and form an umbrella-shaped inflorescence tilted to the side.

This is a long-blooming species, so enjoy bright flowers you can from May to early July.

Spring primrose or veris is considered medicinal plant, often used for decoctions and infusions

Primrose high

Perhaps the name speaks for itself: the tall primrose can grow up to 35 centimeters in height. It reaches this size thanks to a powerful root system, which is formed by many cord-like brown roots. The leaf blades are lanceolate or ovoid in shape and covered with small wrinkles. Often the edges of the leaves of the plant are framed with small teeth, and their inner side is covered with grayish hairs. Small flowers (diameter 2-3 cm) are collected in lush umbrella-shaped brushes. Primrose is not only beautiful, but also fragrant, so plant several perennial bushes near the gazebo.

The main difference between tall primroses is their long peduncles.

Primrose rejected (Siebold's primrose)

This herbaceous perennial is medium in size and can reach up to 25 centimeters in height. It has a thin, highly branched, long rhizome. Lanceolate-oval, toothed leaves are located on elongated petioles. Often there are hybrids whose leaf blades are densely covered with tiny fibers. Peduncles with large flowers rise majestically above the green bush. Depending on the variety, the buds, collected in umbrella-shaped inflorescences, can be colored pink, purple or soft purple with a white throat. Flowering lasts from early May to June.

Primrose Siebold is Japanese variety primrose with serrated leaves

Pink primrose is a spring perennial that enchants with its incredible beauty and bright colors. The height of an adult plant is 30 centimeters. It has wrinkled leaves narrowed into a small petiole and long arrows (20-30 cm). The buds are brightly colored pink color and form umbrella-shaped inflorescences. Most often this type is used to decorate lawns and borders. For fast growth and abundant flowering the bush requires loose, fertile soil and a large amount of moisture, so it should be watered abundantly and fertilizers should be added to the soil.

Pink primrose is great for growing on an alpine hill

Primula Bisa

The bush is formed by oblong leaves of an obovate shape, collected in rosettes. The leaf blade is narrowed towards the base, has a blunt apex and is covered with small teeth along the edges. The variety is distinguished by rather dense, hard, long (up to 50 cm) peduncles, which are covered with a slight powdery coating. They contain bright candelabra inflorescences consisting of 8-16 large flowers. They are collected in whorls and form from 2 to 8 tiers on the peduncle. The opened bud reaches 2 centimeters in diameter. Depending on the variety you choose, the buds may be pink, raspberry or carmine in color.

Primula byssus is a candelabra species of primrose.

As a rule, the presented variety is grown as a biennial, but perennial cultivation is also possible. Beautiful, long (up to 40 cm) leaves have an uneven serrated border and fall off in the winter. The inflorescences are located on high (up to 50 cm) peduncles in 5-7 tiers. The flowers can be yellow-orange or orange in color and bloom from June to July. Primrose Bullea looks great near ponds and streams, and is also well suited for creating flower arrangements.

When placing a plant in open ground care should be taken to ensure reliable winter shelter, since the flower does not tolerate low temperatures.

Primula Bullea is a candelabra species of primrose with tiered flowers.

One of the tallest types. The peduncles are quite thin, but despite this, they can reach up to 75 centimeters in length. Powerful, erect stems are covered with a slight powdery coating. The leaves have an oval or lanceolate shape and are collected in a dense basal rosette. The drooping buds make up lush multi-flowered umbrella-shaped apical inflorescences, located on the peduncle in several tiers. The funnel-shaped corolla is pale yellow or cream in color. The flowering period occurs in May-June. The plant can withstand frosts down to -23°C and prefers to grow in wetlands or well-moistened areas.

It is a compact bushy perennial that does not grow higher than 20 centimeters. The basal leaves converge into delicate rosettes, from which arrow-peduncles rise majestically. Spatulate-lanceolate leaves can be entire or finely toothed. The foliage, stems and peduncles are covered with a whitish-yellow powdery coating. Flowers of purple, pinkish-lilac or deep purple have a bright throat and are collected in umbrella-shaped racemes.

The plant blooms from May to June, but when proper care Maybe re-blooming in early September.

Powdery primrose is a primrose with umbrella-shaped inflorescences and the presence of a white or yellow coating on the plants

This variety is usually cultivated indoors, placing a flowerpot with a bush on the windowsill or balcony (in summer) of the apartment. Is a herbaceous annual plant, growing up to half a meter. The leaves, collected in a dense rosette, are attached to dense petioles. The leaf blade may be oval or heart-shaped, as well as an unusual serrated border. Leafless pedicels rise above the bush, on which there are several whorls. As a rule, the inflorescence consists of 10-20 small fragrant flowers. The buds can be colored pink, red or snow-white, the throat is yellow. The plant will delight you with colorful flowers in the middle of winter, giving you a spring mood.

Primrose softleaf is usually suitable for growing indoors

This is a perennial with beautiful grayish-green, serrated, round-heart-shaped leaves, covered with a pronounced powdery coating. Umbrella-shaped inflorescences of tiny yellow flowers are located on tall peduncles. As a rule, the length of the peduncle varies from 20 to 30 centimeters, and the diameter of the flower does not exceed 1 centimeter. The buds are very thin, pleasant aroma, so the plant is often placed near gazebos or houses.

Primrose cussica - another type of primrose for growing indoors

Chinese primrose

It is a herbaceous perennial. A bush placed in the garden usually grows up to 30 centimeters. It has petiolate leaves of a rounded heart shape, collected in a powerful rosette and reaching 10-15 centimeters in length. The edge of the leaf blade is serrated. Umbrella inflorescences are located on high peduncles. The flowers are quite large (4 cm). There are varieties with snow-white, pink, red or orange buds, as well as wavy petals. The Chinese primrose will bloom annually only if after each flowering you artificially arrange a dormant stage for it.

The structure of Primula sinensis Primula sinensis is perfect for growing in the garden and at home

The reverse conical primrose comes from China and is one of the tallest members of the family. An adult plant reaches a height of more than half a meter, has pubescent oval leaves with a heart-shaped base, located on oblong petioles. The edges of the leaf blade are slightly wavy. At the root, the foliage gathers into several powerful rosettes. Leafless flower stalks grow up to 25 centimeters, the inflorescences are umbrella-shaped. The color of the buds depends on the chosen hybrid. There are varieties on the market with scarlet, blue, snow-white or pink flowers.

Please note that fragrant flowers can cause allergies in people sensitive to strong odors. In this case, we recommend giving preference to special hypoallergenic hybrids, bred by breeders specifically to prevent allergic reactions.

Obconical primrose has another name - Primula obconica

We have presented to your attention the most common types of primroses, but recently hybrids such as polyanthus primrose, terry primrose, obconica, acaulis, colossea, Elizabeth Killeley evening primrose, denim, Dutch and roseanna have become increasingly popular. Of particular interest are the mix varieties, which are a mixture various types, planted in one container.

How to care for primrose at home

Breeding primrose is not as difficult as it might seem at first glance. By familiarizing yourself with the basic recommendations of experts on creating optimal conditions for a flower, you will be able to grow a healthy plant and even propagate it.

Lighting

Perennial primrose is distinguished by a wide variety of varieties, allowing you to get aesthetic pleasure from contemplating beautiful flowers throughout the spring and autumn period. Almost all varieties suitable for growing in garden conditions are unpretentious, so an area of ​​the garden where other plants do not want to grow may be suitable for primrose. When caring for primrose, you should remember that this flower prefers diffused lighting, direct sunlight harmful to him.

Planting a plant requires compliance with a number of simple rules. Primrose varieties that prefer direct sunlight are very few in number, so when choosing a place to grow these bright flowers, you should focus on shaded areas and semi-shaded flower beds.

Primroses are unpretentious in care, but it is preferable to choose places with diffused lighting for them.

Temperature

In summer it is better to keep the plant on open balcony or in the garden. After the end of the flowering season and with the onset of cold weather, home primrose becomes full-fledged indoor flower. Primrose is perfect for growing outdoors as it prefers cool temperatures. For example, it is better to keep house flowers at 16-20°C, and during flowering it is recommended to move them to a northern windowsill. Naturally, the plant will grow well at normal room temperature, but in this case you should not hope for long-term flowering. Sometimes, pots of primrose are even placed between the frames of old windows to provide it with optimal conditions.

In summer, it is better to take indoor primroses out into the open air.

Humidity

The flower signals a lack of moisture by drying out the edges of the leaves. The atmosphere around the primrose should be moist; from time to time the leaves should be sprayed with warm and soft water.

Primroses are moisture-loving flowers

How to water primrose

During the dormant period, when the flower does not bloom, it is watered moderately, avoiding excess moisture that can destroy the roots of the primrose. During flowering, primrose requires abundant watering, so as soon as the soil on the surface of the flowerpot begins to dry out, moisten it with settled warm water. Watering should be done directly under the root, otherwise the tender leaves may rot.

Top dressing

Care at home involves mandatory feeding of the plant. Most gardeners do not recommend feeding the plant with too rich fertilizer; it is better to dilute it greatly. It is preferable to apply the fertilizing itself comprehensively, starting from the moment the buds appear. Before the first signs of flowering, you should not fertilize the plant, as it will refuse to bloom and will devote all its energy to the leaf. During the period of active flowering, primrose should be fed every 14 days.

Bloom

As already noted, during flowering, primrose requires cool temperatures, high humidity and abundant watering. You should also not forget about fertilizing, which will help somewhat prolong flowering and give the plant the necessary components to form colorful buds.

How to speed up primrose flowering

To speed up flowering and stimulate plant growth, it is sprayed by special means. A 0.01% gibberellin solution is perfect. Such preparations should be used at the stage when buds are just beginning to form on the primrose

You can speed up the flowering of primroses using a 0.01% gibberellin solution

Primrose care after flowering

After the flowering period, the plant should be pruned, faded buds should be removed from the bush and the primrose should be prepared for wintering. It is recommended to reduce watering and moistening; fertilizing should be done no more than once a month.

How to prune primrose

Pruning involves removing flower stalks from faded inflorescences. This procedure is carried out so that the primrose does not waste energy on forming seeds. In this way, you slightly prolong flowering and stimulate the blooming of subsequent flowers. Also, do not forget to trim off yellowing and wilted leaves.

How does primrose reproduce?

This bright and positive flower is not only easy to care for, but also provides gardeners with several options for propagation:

• growing from seeds;
• plant cuttings;
• dividing the bush.

Let's look at each of them in more detail.

How to grow primrose from seeds

Recently, the method of propagating primrose by seeds has become increasingly popular. Despite the fact that experts consider this method to be the most energy-intensive and labor-intensive, many amateurs prefer it. Primulas grown from seeds surprise owners with unexpected colors and a riot of colors, while the characteristics of the mother plant are not always preserved.

Before sowing primrose seeds, it is better to stratify them

At home, primrose is grown from seeds using the same technologies that are used when propagating garden flowers:

• Before planting in the soil, the seeds are kept in a cold place for several days (this procedure is called stratification);
• After aging, the seeds are planted in wet soil to a depth of 5 millimeters, primrose can also be sown in peat tablets;
• after the first shoots (after four to six weeks), the sprouts are carefully observed, waiting for the first leaves to appear;
• the appearance of the first leaves serves as a signal for plants to pick;
• grown seedlings are planted several at a time in one pot.

Please note that primrose from seeds blooms only in the second or third year.

Dividing the bush

This method is considered the most popular among gardeners due to its simplicity and accessibility, especially since this procedure should be carried out regularly: young bushes must be separated from old ones so that the plants do not interfere with each other. The overgrown primrose is dug out of the ground, the roots are washed under running water and divided with a sharp knife. The separated plant is immediately planted in the ground and provided with daily watering.

Garden primrose reproduces well by dividing the bush

Cuttings

The cutting method is considered a little less popular. By the way, this method is more preferable for the primrose itself. Photos demonstrating the cutting procedure can be easily found on the Internet. When cutting, first of all, make a small incision on the upper part of the root, which will provoke the growth of buds. After the shoot grows, it is transplanted into the soil and watered regularly.

Leaf cuttings

Leaf cuttings are also excellent for propagation. To do this, you should select several strong leaves, shorten them by one third, and then treat them with a special stimulator for root formation. The resulting seedlings are planted in individual pots with substrate, deepening the cuttings by 2 centimeters. Until a pair of true leaves appear, the small primrose should be kept under a special shelter.

How to transplant primrose

If you were given this beautiful flower as a gift or purchased it from a flower shop, most likely you will have to replant the plant. This is the only way you can be sure that the soil and pot size are ideal for your primrose. Transplantation is also carried out at the end of the flowering period.

The soil

Primrose is known as a grateful flower, sensitive to care. Experts say that the main care requirement to ensure plant comfort is maintaining an optimal level of soil moisture in which perennial primrose grows. Planting a flower requires a high-quality selection of soil mixture.

Due to the weakness of the root system inherent in most types of primroses, the soil under these flowers should be loose and permeable, clean, and free from weeds.

Choosing a pot and planting

If you live in the city and want to decorate your windowsill with a wonderful flower - potted primrose will be best choice. It does not require a large flowerpot. It is enough for it to be approximately twice the size of the bush. To begin, fill the pot by one third with drainage, then pour into it part of the substrate, consisting of a special soil mixture and sand. Remove the plant from the old pot, shake off the soil thoroughly and place it in a new one, placing the root collar closer to the surface. Be very careful with the roots so as not to damage them. Now all you have to do is water the primrose generously with purified water and add soil until required level. Be careful not to get water on the delicate leaves, otherwise they may rot.

When indoor primrose grows, it is transplanted into a larger pot

Planting in open ground

Experts recommend planting primrose in spring or autumn. The most suitable period will be from the end of May to the beginning of June. Choose a shaded place for the plant, protected from direct sunlight. Only alpine primrose hybrids can be planted in the sun. Before planting, you should thoroughly loosen and moisten the soil and apply complex fertilizers. It is also necessary to take care of drainage to prevent water from stagnating in the ground. If the soil in your garden plot is excessively heavy and clayey, make it somewhat lighter by adding a mixture of sand, manure, vermiculite and moss. The distance you need to maintain when planting primrose largely depends on the variety you choose. For miniature hybrids, 10-15 centimeters will be sufficient, and tall species need twice as much more space, so they are planted 20-30 centimeters from each other. The fit must be fairly tight, otherwise flower composition will look unaesthetic. The application of complex fertilizers will help to accelerate the growth and increase the flowering time of the plant.

Grown primumul seedlings from pots are transplanted into open ground

Primrose care after planting

After planting, primrose takes some time to take root and adapt to the new place. During this period, seedlings need regular watering, loosening the soil and fertilizing. Don’t forget to remove weeds weekly that interfere with the development of the flower’s root system. In summer, watering is doubled, increasing water consumption to 3 liters per 1 m².

It is recommended to use complex mineral fertilizers well diluted with water as top dressing. The dosage indicated in the instructions is usually reduced by 1.5-2 times, and the feeding procedure is carried out weekly. Also alternate phosphorus and potassium mixtures to make it easier for the perennial to regain strength after the formation of lush buds.

Diseases and pests of primrose

The most common cause of various diseases and pests is improper flower care. For example, yellowing leaves indicate insufficient air humidity or primrose content at excessively high temperatures, excessive watering or fertilizing. Too frequent and abundant watering often leads to the plant being affected by gray rot, which destroys the stems and root system of the plant. Adjust the watering system, remove wilted stems and replant the primrose in a new substrate. As for pests, primrose most often suffers from spider mites or aphids. Treatment with an insecticide for indoor plants will help get rid of them.

If not properly cared for, primroses can be affected by gray rot.

Primrose is not only excellent ornamental plant, but also a storehouse of healing substances. This is no secret, because it has long been used in folk medicine. For example, the benefits of decoctions and tinctures using primrose flowers and leaves have long been proven by scientists. Capsules, herbal teas and other preparations are made based on the plant. Naturally, any remedy can be used only on the recommendation of the attending physician, who will indicate the required dosage and describe the exact regimen of use. Primrose oil received greatest distribution, as it has a number of useful properties. It is taken for women's diseases and cycle disorders, diseases of the cardiovascular system, mental disorders and even during pregnancy. The range of uses is quite wide, so primrose oil should be in every medicine cabinet. Please note that the purchase of medicinal products should be carried out exclusively in a pharmacy, since a drug purchased in a supermarket or on the market may not meet quality standards and cause harm to the body. As for manufacturers, there are many good reviews has products from Solgar and Ginocomfort.

ECOgardener

Primroses - cultivation and care, use in garden design

Planting primrose and caring for it in the open ground is quite easy even for novice summer residents. And this is a very popular garden flower, with many varieties. There are a huge number of varieties and hybrids that amaze with their beauty and do not require painstaking care. But in order to fully enjoy all the delights of a flower, some of the subtleties of planting and care should be studied. Let's talk about the most important things.

Garden primroses: planting and care in open ground

Almost all primroses love partial shade and coolness, with the exception of some southern species and varieties. In such conditions, flowers open from all their best sides - the size of leaves, buds, rich and bright color of flowers. Moreover, the plant can develop well even on poor soils, but not waterlogged ones.

Some primroses begin to actively grow from the second year after planting. It is advisable to plant them, otherwise the roots of young bushes will end up on the surface of the ground and the young plants will die. If it is not possible to divide the primroses before the onset of cold weather, they can be covered with earth or mulched with humus until spring.

How to plant primroses

Before planting, you should enrich the soil, add rotted manure and a little wood ash. You can improve the structure of the soil by adding a small amount of sand or vermiculite. Tall primrose bushes are planted at a distance of 40–50 cm from each other, and low-growing ones at 10–20 cm. This is a standard, recommended scheme, but if desired, you can plant the flower a little thicker.

Important! Primroses are planted in cloudy weather or in the evening. There is no need to overwater the bushes; moderate watering is sufficient.

When planting, it is extremely important not to deepen the growing point, otherwise the plant will get sick and die.

In general, the flower is endowed with strong immunity to various diseases and pests. However, there are still some risks:

• extremely rarely, primrose can be affected by diseases such as jaundice, rust, powdery mildew, bacterial spot, cucumber mosaic virus, as well as stem and root collar rot and anthracnose;
• When thickening plantings, fleas, aphids, weevils, spider mites, slugs and nematodes may become interested in primroses.

From time to time you need to inspect the bushes. When the first symptoms of diseases or pests are detected, treatment is started immediately. Particular attention should be paid to purchased primroses in pots, which are driven out for the holidays. Here is a useful video about preventing the appearance of root rot from the charming Natalia, who leads the Garden World project:

While purchased primroses are waiting to be planted in the garden, remove yellowing leaves in a timely manner, water the plants not from above, but in a tray, excess water drain. When loosening the soil, do not fill the growing point (when planting in the ground, also watch for the deepening of the growing point).

It is also useful to “salt” the soil surface with ash and carry out every 3rd watering using a solution of Fitosporin-M (it is the cheapest of natural preparations). There is also Anti-Rot powder from the same Bashkir company, created for processing vegetables in storage. Well, the most powerful biofungicide from this line is Reanimator-M, intended for the treatment of already affected plants. All of these preparations are based on living spores and cells of beneficial soil microbes Bacillus subtilus.

It is also useful to put 2 tablets of Glyocladin into the root, or water it weekly with a solution of Trichoderma verde - these are useful soil fungi that enhance the immunity of plants.

Remember that if a weakened plant is planted in the garden, pests will attack it and completely eat it. We have repeatedly seen how slugs eat purchased primroses, although already adapted specimens grow quietly nearby. So, we don’t just need to keep the primrose in pots until spring, but strengthen its immunity. Lately, we have been saving all purchased seedlings this way; we even try to immediately replant indoor roses and disinfect the soil.

How to care for primroses

Growing a plant is a pleasure - all that primrose needs is removing weeds, loosening the soil, watering and light fertilizing. This, of course, is if a mulch layer is not used. In mulch, a soil crust does not form and loosening is not necessary.

To extend the flowering period of the bushes, all faded inflorescences should be removed.

During hot periods, watering is carried out frequently. The first feeding is carried out when the inflorescences begin to grow; if this is done earlier, all the nutrition will go into the leaves. The second time the primrose is fertilized after flowering. Organic or organomineral complexes are suitable. Once every 4 or 5 years, mandatory planting (division) of bushes is carried out.

Important! Only young bushes and heat-loving species and varieties of primroses need shelter for the winter. Old foliage, like that of garden strawberries, is cut from the bushes only in the spring.

How to propagate garden primrose

There are 2 methods - vegetative and generative. Dividing the bush is carried out before or after flowering, in spring or autumn. Some primroses can begin to be divided from the age of 3, while others only from the age of five. To avoid confusion, it is better to consult with flower growers.

Details about the methods of propagation of primroses:

• division - the plant is carefully dug up and the roots are washed with water without damaging them. Now the bush needs to be cut so that each section contains a restoration bud, developed roots and a rosette of leaves. The cut sites are immediately treated with wood ash, and the primroses are immediately planted in a new place. For 2 weeks after planting, seedlings are watered daily. If division is carried out in the fall, the plantings are covered with foliage or spruce branches for the winter;
• cuttings - the largest, most developed primrose bushes are chosen for the procedure. In spring or summer after flowering, the plant is dug up and some of the thickest roots are cut off. To make buds form faster, longitudinal cuts are carefully made on the upper side of the cuttings. Now the root sections are placed in holes no deeper than 4 cm and sprinkled with earth. Care for seedlings in the usual way;
• rooting - this method is suitable if the primroses have not yet reached the age suitable for division. The procedure is carried out in autumn or summer. From the very base of the root, the leaf petiole is separated along with the bud (the leaf blade is cut by a third) and placed in a mixture of sand and garden soil. The pot with the seedling is placed on a bright windowsill. It is important that the sheet is not exposed to direct sunlight. The soil is periodically moistened, and the room temperature is maintained at 16–18 °C. The bush will be ready for transplanting as soon as the young shoots hatch;
• seeds - many, but not all varieties and hybrids can be propagated in this way. For example, it will not be possible to grow a beautiful specimen from collected terry primrose seeds. The grains are practically not stored; they need to be sown within 1 or 2 years, and freshly harvested seed has the best germination rate. Sowing is most often done in the fall, then the plants will bloom the next year.

Important! Primrose can be grown seedling method, but it is worth remembering that seeds of almost all types require stratification. Exceptions are common and fine-toothed primroses. Seedlings develop slowly.

Forcing primroses

Most types of garden primrose, especially low-growing ones, are suitable for spring flower forcing. Plants must be two years old. Bushes of older primroses need to be divided before the procedure.

In late autumn, the plants are dug up, transferred together with a lump of earth into a common box and placed in a room with a temperature of at least 1–3 °C. In early February, old leaves and stems are cut off from primroses, bushes are planted small pots(diameter 10–12 cm). Any land can be used. There is no need to deepen the plants; the rosette of leaves is placed at the level of the soil surface.

Now the primroses need to be moved to a bright windowsill, the temperature is increased to 10 °C. Water the plants as needed, sparingly. Feed the bushes when the buds form. You can use complex fertilizer (1% aqueous solution). After flowering, primroses are planted back into the garden.

Primrose in landscape design, combination with other flowers

In any garden there are areas covered with shadow from fences, walls or tree crowns - ideal conditions for primroses. Flowers can be combined with other plants, and flower beds where different varieties, species and hybrids of primroses bloom continuously one after another.

What can be decorated with bright and unpretentious primroses? Yes, anything - borders, ponds, rockeries, as well as rocky hills, flower beds of all types, lawns, etc.

The flower grows well in containers and hanging planters, which means they can decorate a porch, gazebo, balcony or stairs. The main thing is to create suitable conditions for the flower.

Primroses are famous good companions, they are simply not capable of crushing their neighbors. They will direct their growth to where there is free space, without displacing anyone. Flowers and herbs with similar preferences are planted next to primroses - diffuse shade and constant, moderate soil moisture. The most successful neighbors include ferns, astilbes, miniature conifers and hosts.

The love for primroses is long lasting; after planting just one flower, you will definitely want more. It becomes difficult to stop later, especially since there are so many of them and they are all so different! The versatility and special unpretentiousness of the plant only increases the interest of gardeners. So we safely recommend planting primroses in your area; planting and caring for them in the open ground will not burden you much.

Perennial primrose - garden culture characterized by a variety of beautiful flowers, unpretentious character and early flowering.

Due to the fact that the plant does not require special care and at the same time has outstanding aesthetic qualities, primrose has gained enormous popularity not only among landscape design specialists, but also among ordinary amateur gardeners. And how many affectionate names people have come up with for this plant - these are keys, and talismans of happiness, and Easter flowers, and lambs.

Description of the perennial primrose flower

Primrose, or primrose, belongs to the Primrose family. This is crazy beautiful perennial flower, blooming in early spring. IN wildlife There are more than 500 species of primrose, common in Asia, America and Europe.

There is a plant in forests, mountainous areas and plains on moist, humus-rich soil. Some rare species of primroses are listed in the Red Book of the Russian Federation. These include bud-leaved primrose, Julia, Daryal, Berengia.

Advantages of primrose:

• pleasant aroma;
• early abundant and long flowering;
• variety of shapes and colors;
• winter hardiness;
• rapid reproduction;
• decorative foliage (until late autumn).

If you collect in your collection different types primrose - flowers will delight with their beauty from early spring until the end of summer. There are varieties that bloom twice a season - in spring and autumn.

Early primroses bloom in spring almost immediately after the snow melts. Flowering duration is until the end of May. Perennial primroses are used as decorative culture in any flower beds, borders, ridges, on alpine hills.

Their group plantings form a picturesque, very bright carpet. If you want a beautiful garden to appear on your windowsill in March, plant primrose in pots in the fall. The flower is also used to decorate flowerpots and containers.

Primrose - planting and care in open ground

Almost all types of primroses prefer fertile, humus-rich soils. Although primroses tolerate direct sunlight and drought, they still grow and develop best at moderate humidity in light partial shade of trees.

Although the flower makes some demands on self-care, however, the plant cannot be called capricious. Moreover, among the variety of varieties there are also completely unpretentious varieties and hybrids. They do not amaze with their brightness, but their delicate color is noticeable from any corner of the garden.

For example, this is the large-cupped, spring, common primrose. These varieties will grow even in areas with a cool and fairly humid climate. The soil for planting must be good drained, nutritious and loose.

How does primrose reproduce?

Cuttings. Reproduction method root cuttings Suitable for most varieties of primrose. First, you need to make a longitudinal cut (up to 1.5 cm) on top of the root in order for buds to form.

Then plant the cuttings in a light loose soil, to a depth of 2.5−3 cm. Now you only need to provide traditional care for the flower.

Propagation by seeds. This method is considered less effective, since primrose seeds ripening in July-August before sowing (until spring) lose their viability by about 30%.

Therefore, it is better to sow them immediately after ripening in containers or in open ground. When sowing in autumn, seedlings will appear after 2-3 weeks, while in spring, seed germination will take much longer (up to 1 month).

If the flower is planned to be grown in a greenhouse, sowing is carried out in early February. Scatter the seeds on the surface of the soil (5 pieces per 1 cm are enough), lightly compact the soil and cover with film.

Seed germination can be accelerated by covering the crops with snow for two days. After germination, the film should be opened slightly. To flowers protection must be provided from direct sun rays. After 1.5 weeks, the film can be removed completely, but it is very important to keep the soil moist.

Since primrose seedlings grow very slowly, you will have to be patient. In addition, before sowing primroses, you should familiarize yourself with the characteristics of the variety: some should be germinated in the dark, others in the light.

After the formation of 2-3 true leaves, the seedlings dive either immediately transplanted into open ground. The distance between plants is determined by the size of a particular variety and varies from 10 to 30 cm. It is necessary to calculate so that the rosettes of adult primroses do not touch each other. Young plants bloom 2-3 years after planting.

Dividing the bush- a good way to rejuvenate the plant, otherwise the primrose will begin to weaken and lose the splendor of flowering. It is better to carry out the procedure in the 3-5th year of the plant’s life, when the bushes have grown. This should be done immediately after flowering or in August.

First, you need to water the area with the plant, then dig up the bush, and carefully shake off the roots from the ground, rinse them in water. Using a knife, divide the plant into several parts.

Be sure to leave a resume point! The cut should be covered with soil. To prevent the plot from drying out, it needs to be planted as soon as possible. In the next 2 weeks, the transplanted plants need regular watering.

Caring for perennial garden primrose

When caring for the plant, the following rules must be observed:

Primrose in landscape design

Garden primrose has a variety of species. And with a successful combination of different varieties, you will get a magnificent garden that blooms from April to August. The plant looks great in the garden and can be used for decorating rocky slides and corners, as well as plant variegated bushes on the lawn.

Small ones look great artificial reservoirs, near which fragrant Alpine and Sikkimese primroses grow. An unusual flavor will be given to the site garden paths, along which there is a collection of bright colorful plants.

Tulips, low irises, muscari, spiny phlox, daffodils and soapwort are suitable as “neighbors” of primrose. Primroses are often planted in garden containers and flowerpots. to decorate the surrounding area and at home.

Planting options

First option. The primrose will look good among sparsely planted peonies, which will pick up the baton of flowering from the primrose and hide its unattractive dried foliage.

Second option. Primroses do well (especially with plenty of moisture during the dry season) next to snapdragons on the north side of an alpine hill, where there is direct sun only at midday.

Third option. A large amount of snow that has accumulated near clematis over the winter will make the primrose very happy in the spring, so both of these plants complement each other well.

Fourth option. Just next to the sorrel, in the garden, in a bunch.

So that after all the work when planting and caring for primroses you are not disappointed, try to first study all the features of a particular species, since the requirements for different varieties may differ significantly.

Primrose is a beautiful and touching perennial flower of the primrose family. It is also called primrose. Thanks to its early (as soon as the snow has melted) flowering, decorative qualities and unpretentiousness, it has earned a good attitude among gardeners - planting and caring for primrose is simple, and these flowers decorate the area unusually.

Preparing for planting in open ground

Primrose is an unpretentious plant - planting and care in open ground is not difficult. To decorate your garden with a carpet of flowers, you just need to consider a few points.

Landing dates

Perennial garden primrose is planted in open ground in the second year of life. Can be planted in spring or autumn. The optimal time for planting seedlings is late May - early June. You can sow seeds at one of the following periods:

1. Spring. Late February – early March. Seeds are sown in containers. When the snow melts, they are transplanted into open ground.
2. Summer. July August. This period is relevant for varietal primroses, whose seeds ripen at this time.
3. Autumn. Planting seeds before winter. It is believed that planting primrose in the garden in the fall (October) is most effective, because after the snow melts, the soil is saturated with moisture.

Choosing a location on the site

When choosing a place for planting, you need to take into account that perennial wild primrose grows in the forest, forest-steppe, zone. The place should be slightly shaded, well ventilated, and fairly cool.

Pre-planting soil preparation

The soil for primroses needs to be fertile, with a neutral or slightly acidic pH, clayey, loose, moisture-absorbing, moist, and well-drained. If the soil on the site does not meet these requirements, its composition is improved. It is necessary to remove 20 cm of the top layer of soil and replace it with a suitable layer of soil. For 1 m² the following is added:

• sand (bucket);
• crushed sphagnum moss;
• vermiculite;
• fermented manure (2 kg).

Preparation of planting material

Preparing primroses for planting from a greenhouse or conservatory involves hardening them and acclimating them to the sun's rays. When the outdoor temperature rises above 10 °C, containers with seedlings are taken out into the open air for several hours. If the primrose is a large plant, or has already bloomed, then it is advisable to keep it in the fresh air for a week before planting.

Landing process

Before planting, both the flowers in the containers and the holes prepared for them in the soil are moistened. 2 hours after watering, they are planted in open ground. It is better to plant primrose on a cloudy day. The seedlings are then better acclimatized to the sun's rays. If planted in dry and hot weather, the plants need to be moistened abundantly.

There are three ways to plant primroses in the ground:

1. Seedling method. As much old soil as possible is removed from the roots.
2. Transshipment method. The soil covering the roots is preserved. Primroses, which have a tender root system, it is recommended to plant by transshipment method.
3. Replacement of topsoil. The soil is loosened, the top layer is removed and new light, nutritious soil is filled in.

When planting large flowers, you need to keep a distance of 40–45 cm between them. Between miniature primroses, keep a distance of 10–15 cm. To get decorative effect flower mat, plants are planted and more closely.

Primrose care rules

Primrose is an unpretentious flower, the main care for it consists of systematically loosening the soil (preferably after watering), removing weeds, maintaining soil moisture, and covering it for the winter.

Watering frequency and water quality requirements

Water weekly at a rate of about 3 liters of water per m². In hot weather, watering is increased, focusing on the soil - it needs to be kept slightly moist. Watering - in the evening, after sunset, or in cloudy weather - to protect the primrose from sunburn. The water should be settled, not cold.

Selection and timing of fertilizer application

Planting and care in open ground include regular feeding of primrose and soil enrichment. Complex fertilizers are used for feeding. The dose is halved from that recommended on the package. Feeding - weekly, from the appearance of the first leaves to the end of flowering, simultaneously with loosening the soil.

1. Apply potash fertilizers in early spring.
2. During flowering (14–21 days after the first fertilization), apply phosphorus fertilizers. They increase the duration of flowering.
3. After flowering - nitrogen, potassium and phosphorus fertilizers. The flower also needs organic fertilizers (mullein, horse manure).

In autumn, the place where the primrose grows is enriched with a nutrient substrate. Apply a mixture of the following composition in a 3 cm layer to a depth of 15–20 cm:

• humus (5 kg.);
• compost soil (10 kg);
• peat (5 kg.);
• phosphorus-potassium fertilizers (20 g);
• nitrogen fertilizers (15 g).

Lighting

Optimal lighting for primroses is diffused sunlight, partial shade. It is good to plant it next to tall plants. Deciduous trees and shrubs provide it with the necessary shade from the sun. Perennial primrose feels good when planted next to coniferous trees.

Favorable temperature

In summer, primrose feels comfortable at temperatures no higher than 25°C. During the dormant period, the optimal temperature is 15–18°C. This also applies to homemade primroses. In areas with warm winters Primrose is unpretentious, it is not necessary to cover it - a layer of snow will be enough. But it must be taken into account that in a snowless, cold winter the flower may freeze. In cold regions, primroses are covered with dry leaves, straw, and spruce branches. The cover layer should be less than 10 cm thick.

Pruning rules

The plant is pruned in the spring, and in the fall the leaf rosette must be preserved - it will serve as a natural shelter for the primrose for the winter - both from the cold and from the wind. These leaves are removed in the spring.

Pests and diseases of primrose

It is necessary to notice even minor changes in the appearance of primroses, as they can signal a disease or pest attack. For example, a fluffy gray coating on leaves and flowers means gray rot; white, with black dots, plaque on the leaves - a sign powdery mildew. Withered leaves may be a sign of late blight, and curled and yellowed ones may signal the appearance of aphids. Small light spots may indicate thrips feeding areas, and dried areas of leaves and thin cobwebs are a sign of a mite.

Flowering period

The flowering period of primrose depends on the type and variety. By combining different types, you can get an elegant garden from April to August. Flowering time:

• beginning of spring – beginning of summer (“Virginia”, “Siebolda”);
• the beginning and end of summer (“Bullesiana”, “Florinda”).

Acceleration of flowering

Forced acceleration of flowering is called forcing. It is done at home in order to receive flowers by a certain time, for example, by March 8th.

1. In October, dig up a garden primrose (2 years old) and, together with a lump of earth, leave it in a cold (2–5 °C) room. Does not require watering.
2. Don't allow any more high temperature or bright light - this can provoke leaf growth.
3. In February-January, move the primrose to a bright and warm (12-15°C) room. Resume watering.
4. When the primrose blooms, apply potassium-phosphorus fertilizer every 2 weeks.

Suitable for forcing are “ordinary”, “pink” primroses, and “Siebold” primroses.

Care during the rest period

After flowering ends, primrose is busy growing leaves. You need to care for the flower unobtrusively during this period. Watering is reduced, fertilizing is applied once a month.

Reason and methods of transplantation

The main reason for transplantation is the tendency of primrose to grow greatly. If, after 3-5 years of growing in the garden in one place, the primrose begins to grow and bloom poorly, then it needs to be replanted. Methods:

1. Adding new nutrient soil. This method can be used if the root is exposed and begins to dry out, but for some reason replanting to a new location is difficult or undesirable.
2. Transshipment. It is used if the root system has not grown much and the plant can be replanted along with a ball of earth on the roots. When transshipping, you need to pluck out all the buds and flowers, because the primrose will need strength to take root.
3. Transfer. For adult (4–5 years old) plants. Simultaneously with transplantation, propagation is also carried out by dividing the bush. In autumn, the flower is dug up, the roots are separated and planted.

It is advisable to replant garden primrose after the flowering period, in spring (late May - early June) or autumn - in September.

Reproduction methods

Primrose propagates vegetatively (by cuttings, dividing the bush) and by seed.

Dividing the bush

Reproduction of primrose by dividing the bush allows you to rejuvenate the plant and preserve all varietal characteristics. The bush is usually divided during transplantation and after flowering; the flower must be at least 3 years old. Water the area, dig up the bush and wash the roots from the soil. With a sharp knife cut the roots so that a leaf rosette remains on the divisions. Powder the cut areas with ash. It is necessary to plant as quickly as possible, before the cuttings dry out. Water thoroughly for the next 2 weeks.

By cuttings

Leaf propagation. A well-developed leaf rosette is cut off near the roots of the plant. Separate the leaf with the bud (cutting) and plant it in a container with soil. Keep the container with the petiole in a bright place at a temperature of 16-18°C until roots appear, and then transplant it into a container until spring.

Seeds

Primrose can be grown from seeds. Seeds collected independently must be disinfected. Soak in solution boric acid(0.5 g per 1 liter of water) 24 hours, rinse. Procedure:

1. Place a substrate of turf soil and sand (1 part each) and leaf soil (2 parts) into a container with a good drainage layer.
2. Scatter the seeds over the surface (5 pieces per 1 cm are enough), lightly compact. Cover the container with film.
3. Stratify for a minimum of 10 days (or about a month) at a temperature of 5 to -10°C. This can be done in the freezer.
4. Transfer the container to the windowsill and water the seeds. Open the film every day for a few hours and remove it completely after 2 weeks.
5. At a temperature of 17 degrees, seedlings will appear in 25 days. After 2–3 true leaves appear, the seedlings are plucked.

It is necessary to learn about the characteristics of the variety, because not all primroses need stratification (for example, “Rosanna”).

Using primrose in landscape design

Primrose can decorate almost any corner of the site. Prerequisite- direct rays of the sun should not fall on it, so when planting you should adhere to north side. Primrose can be planted as a continuous flower carpet along the paths, grown green border(the varieties “high” and “polyanthus” are good for this).

The particularly moisture-loving variety “Sikkimskaya” will look spectacular near ponds and fountains. For alpine slides, “rocky” and “allioni” are well suited. In flower beds and front gardens, primroses go well with daffodils, irises, phlox, tulips, and bells. Hybrid primroses are indispensable in landscape design because they have bright and varied colors.

Popular types and varieties of primrose

The genus Primula is extremely diverse. Includes more than 500 species, almost 200 varieties. Primroses “stemless”, “siebold”, and “spring” are especially widespread.

Stemless primrose, or common primrose (Primula vulgaris)

The common primrose is very decorative; it blooms in March – April – July with an abundance of white, pale yellow flowers and shades of pink and red. Under favorable circumstances, it may bloom again in early autumn. Easily tolerates air temperatures down to minus 23 °C.

Siebold's Primula (Primula sieboldii)

It blooms from July with flowers of scarlet and purple shades. The edges of the petals are smooth and “patterned”. The leaves of this species die off after flowering, so it must be carefully covered for the winter.

Spring primrose (Primula veris)

The spring primrose is the most famous species of primrose. From this species came many hybrids with varied, simple and complex colors, including terry primroses. The “spring primrose” itself blooms with yellow-orange flowers in April. Easy to carry low temperature, but must be protected from frost.

Primula elatior

It blooms in April-May with small yellow inflorescences. Primrose hybrids range in color from pink to dark blue. Due to its decorative appearance, early long flowering and unpretentiousness, it is readily grown in gardens.

Other types

Some types of primroses are grown at home. The best plants For home grown are considered:

1. Primrose “obconika”. It blooms in a pot with large red, yellow, blue, purple flowers in winter and spring.
2. Primrose “Chinese”. This indoor primrose is distinguished by unusual buds - they are located close to each other and resemble a bouquet.

Planting and caring for primrose at home is not difficult. The requirements for temperature, watering, and soil are similar to garden primroses. But indoor primroses, unlike garden ones, can cause an allergic skin reaction.

Primrose is famous not only for its decorative qualities, but also for its healing ones. Decoctions and infusions of leaves help with bronchitis, rheumatism, headaches, strengthen immune system and calm the nerves.

Primrose or primrose is a representative of the Primrose genus, growing mainly in Europe and Central Asia, as well as in the north African continent. Representatives of this genus have been cultivated for a very long time, and its number includes almost half a thousand species.

Since the species and varietal diversity is very large, the stems, foliage and flowers also have their differences. There are both annual varieties and perennial plants.

Varieties and types

Or Stemless Although this plant has this name, it is very beautiful. The lanceolate foliage is quite long and stays on the stem for a very long time. The flowers are white or pale yellow, located on peduncles.

The flowers that appear in summer are colored in shades of scarlet and purple. An important feature is that at the end of flowering, the foliage of this species dies.

Mountain perennial species. It has slightly wrinkled foliage with fine teeth along the edges. The flowers are small, yellow, and form umbrella-shaped inflorescences. The peduncle can be either low or very high. Flowering occurs in mid-spring and lasts almost two months.

Or forest has oval, oblong, slightly wrinkled foliage up to 20 cm. The flowers are yellow with an orange spot, but there are many varieties whose colors have a variety of shades, and the flowers are not only simple, but also double.

Or auricula a plant with dense, leathery, lanceolate foliage edged with small teeth. The color of the flowers depends on the variety, since many hybrids have been created.

This species has tall bushes with long, strap-like leaves and regular yellow flowers with large stamens.

Fine-toothed primrose or just gear it is characterized by spherical inflorescences, which consist of a large number of white, crimson or lilac tones, the size of which varies, depending on the variety, from half a centimeter to two and a half.

It does not have particularly large and attractive foliage, but that is not its highlight. The flowers of this plant are painted in pastel yellow-pink tones, which over time flow from one to another.

The main difference of this species is the lilac-colored inflorescence, which is located on a high peduncle. It has a spherical shape and does not look like the inflorescences of other representatives.

Above the leaf rosette, consisting of light green jagged leaves and lying on the ground, flower stalks rise high, decorated with umbrella flowers of soft lilac or violet tones.

Primrose planting and care in open ground

Disembarkation perennial species of this plant, obtained from seeds sown in pots, in open soil is carried out in spring or autumn, when the second year of their life begins. In spring, planting is best done at the end of the season.

Select a quiet, shaded area for planting. Only those species that are intended for rock gardens can be planted in the sun.

Small specimens should be planted at approximately 15 cm between specimens, large specimens at 25 cm. But do not make the gaps between the bushes too large; when they grow, they should fill all the space between each other.

Soil for garden primrose

The soil for the crop needs to be selected that is breathable, light, and has drainage. Clay soils are a good option, but make sure they are not very heavy.

In this case, you can dig it up with sand, manure and sphagnum. Otherwise, the composition for garden plants of this genus is not particularly important, and the desired acidity is neutral or slightly acidic.

Primrose watering

The area with the plant must be kept free of weeds, and the soil must also be regularly loosened so that the roots can breathe. This is usually done after watering.

The plant needs a sufficient amount of water, so when watering it, use about 3 liters per square meter plot, and in hot weather even more.

Feeding primrose in spring

Primrose also requires feeding. This should be done using complex mineral supplements, but dissolving them twice as much as indicated on the package.

Phosphate-nitrogen fertilizers are used. The application regime is once every 10 days from the appearance of foliage until flowering.

Primrose transplant

Caring for this crop also involves replanting it every 5 years. At the same time, it also reproduces by dividing the bush.

We will tell you more about this process in the reproduction section.

Primrose pruning

In general, this plant does not need pruning, but it is a good idea to remove flower stalks after the flowers have faded. It is better to leave the foliage after flowering; also, do not cut off the leaves that appear in the fall, since they will serve as shelter for the winter; if you cut off the foliage, the bush will weaken.

Primrose after wintering

In the fall, after flowering, the soil next to the plant is loosened and not touched again until winter. With the arrival of spring, the foliage that served as shelter must be removed.

If where you live is very cold in winter, the bushes will need to be additionally covered with dry leaves. If the winter is not very cold, then you don’t need to make a shelter, because the flower will have enough of its leaves for insulation.

As the snow begins to melt, you need to be careful and, without delay, break the ice crust over the flowers so that they can breathe and the water can easily drain away, otherwise the shoots will die.

Primrose from seeds

If you use seeds, it is best to sow them in the soil in late autumn.

To obtain seedlings, the material is sown in containers in the spring, in ordinary nutrient soil, having previously been stratified for a couple of weeks.

The seed is kept in a greenhouse, periodically ventilated and moistened, and after it grows, it is cared for as an ordinary plant. The next year, planting in open ground is performed, described at the beginning of the last section.

Reproduction of primrose by dividing the bush

In addition to this method, the plant is propagated during transplantation by dividing the bush. 4-5 years after planting, when the crop has aged, wait until it finishes flowering, then remove it from the soil.

The roots are washed and divided so that each section has a leaf rosette. The cuts are sprinkled with ash and after this the material is immediately planted in the soil. It is better not to delay transplanting and dividing until the fall, since new individuals may not have time to take root before the cold weather.

Primrose propagation by cuttings

Another method of propagation is the use of root cuttings. To use it, thick roots are cut off, the top of which is slightly incised. After this, parts of the roots are planted to about 3 cm and looked after as an adult plant.

If the rhizome or leaf rosette are still insufficiently developed or weak, then division is undesirable. In this case, axillary shoots are used for propagation.

Primrose propagation by axillary shoots

Near the root, you need to remove the leaf with the petiole and part of the stem. The leaf is cut in half and then the cutting is placed in leaf soil, mixed with coarse sand.

For rooting to go well, the cuttings must be kept in good light, without direct sunlight, and at temperatures up to 19°C. When stems with leaves form from the buds, the material can be transplanted into a separate container, and when it is warm enough outside, they can be planted in a flowerbed.

Diseases and pests

Sometimes primrose is affected by diseases and pests, most often this happens due to improper care of the plant.

• A frequently asked question is poor seed germination . In general, the seeds do not germinate too badly, they just quickly lose their viability, especially in hot conditions. Seed quality may also play a role. To increase germination, you can pre-soak the seeds.
• If primrose withers , then there may be several reasons for this, but most often the reason is stagnation of water in the roots, which is why they begin to rot, or the roots were burned by growth stimulants. It is better to cut off the diseased parts and transplant the bush to another area, and disinfect this one with a fungicide. Another reason may be lack of moisture.
• If primrose foliage dries out and curls , then this is most likely due to sap-sucking pests such as aphids. Use insecticides to combat them. Also, the leaves curl if there is insufficient watering.
• Spider mite , also feeds on plant juices and, in addition to this, it carries other diseases. To get rid of it, use acaricides.
• Weak stem growth And small leaves may be caused by pruning foliage after flowering.
• No flowering This is not a common occurrence and usually occurs due to excess nitrogen fertilizers.
• Another enemy of primrose is slugs that feed on its foliage. To protect yourself from them, sprinkle around the area quicklime. Slugs also do not tolerate any seasonings or dryness. In addition, you can use special drugs aimed at combating them.