Primula malacoides, Mixed Colours

Germination

Sow spring-autumn for flowering plants the following year. Surface sow onto moist, well-drained seed compost. Just cover seed with a sprinkling of vermiculite or soil. Place in a propagator, ideal temp. 15-18°C. If the temp. exceeds 20°C germination rate will decrease considerably. Germination takes from 2-6 weeks. Once germinated remove from propagator and grow seedlings on in a shaded area. Pot on in late summer when well grown into individual 1 litre pots. Grow on under glass.

Growing

This is a tender Primula which is ideal for a heated greenhouse or conservatory which is bright but cool. Can be container grown and moved outside once danger of frost has passed. Prefers a damp soil-based humus rich potting compost with added leaf mould, in partial sun. Ideal growing temp. 13-18°C. This plant does not enjoy high temperatures, please keep below a maximum temp. of 25°C. Fertilise every 2 weeks while in flower. Roots must not dry out. Prefers a humid environment, the plant can be mist sprayed or the container can be placed on a tray of constantly moist pebbles.

Cultivation

Deadheading will extend the flowering window. Easily cultivated from seed. If grown as a houseplant, once flowering is completed the plant can be moved outside where it may survive for several years and may set seed.