primula

Primula plants should be consistently watered so the soil is kept slightly moist; however, they should not be waterlogged or allowed to dry out completely. Generally, water when the top ¼ - ½ inch of soil is dry to the touch, about once or twice a week depending on the temperature and humidity levels. Water from the bottom or at the base of the plant, avoiding wetting the foliage as much as possible. Water in the morning to allow the leaves to have time to dry by evening.

Primula vulgaris (incl. hybrids) grows best when exposed to direct sunlight at least 4 hours per day, preferably in the morning when the light is the least intense. In the late afternoon, the plant species should receive indirect sunlight or be in the shade to prevent foliage from burning and tissue damage. When grown in low-light conditions, this plant species will likely be less vigorous and produce fewer flowers.

Pruning of Primula vulgaris, or the common primrose, should be done lightly and infrequently. Pruning should be done in late summer or early autumn (August-September/October) to remove spent flowers and encourage new growth in the spring. When you do prune, take off no more than 1/3 of the plant at a time, and cut off any dead or damaged foliage. Pruning will also help the plant to stay compact, and will discourage the formation of seeds which will drain energy from the plant.