Trollius europaeus

Germination

Sow indoors or into a cold frame at any time. Prior to sowing soak seed in water. Drain. Indoors, surface sow onto moist, well-drained seed compost. Just cover seed with a sprinkling of soil or vermiculite. Ideal temp. 10°C. If germination does not occur in 4 weeks cold stratify. Move to 4°C, a fridge is ideal, for 6-8 weeks. Return to warmth for germination. Cold frame, again at 10°C, germination may occur at any time but is most likely after a period of natural winter cold followed by warmth in spring. Germination takes 1 month-1 year. Transplant seedlings to 8cm pots and grow on. Acclimatise and plant out after danger of frost has passed.

Growing

Prefers a deep, clay soil which is consistently moist, but not wet, in full or partial shade. Ideal in a sheltered spot away from strong, cold winds. A liquid fertiliser may be applied during the growing season if desired.

Cultivation

Cut back hard after flowering, this may encourage further blooms. May self-seed in ideal growing conditions. Propagate by division in spring.