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The Perennial Garden: English

Hardy Primula, English Cowslip, English Primrose.

Primulas grow in any good garden soil and are hardy, when planted in a slightly sheltered location that is not too exposed to winter winds and when given a slight winter protection. They will do well in partial shade, and the flowers which come in April and early May are various shades of yellow and brown. They [76] are best planted in masses and are excellent for naturalizing along streams, banks, and wooded paths. They may be propagated by division, when the plants become large and bushy, and owing to their early bloom division should be done in fall only, preferably during September. Primulas are easily grown from seed sown either in April in a cold frame, or in May in the open seed bed. Keep the little seedlings watered and cultivated during the summer, and by September they will be ready to be planted into their blooming quarters for bloom the following spring.

Varieties. Primula Veris (English Cowslip), yellow or brown. Primula Vulgaris (English Primrose), pale yellow.