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Moisture-Loving Primulas |
 It is hardly surprising, in view of the large number of
primula species, varieties, and hybrids, now in cultivation,
that the primula family should be so well known. Even in the
tiniest garden where growing conditions are far from con-
genial, one can usually find a plant or two of the common
primrose, often existing in the most precarious positions.
The coloured primroses, polyanthus, cowslip and auricula are
other well-known members of the versatile primula family,
which are often found growing quite happily where there is
little soil or moisture. Generally speaking, however, there
must be an abundance of water available, if the plants are to
do really well.
Many species are most attractive in their manner of growth,
and in the colour of the flowers they produce, but none more
so than the group usually known as the bog primulas. These
like a rich site, where the soil remains really moist without
becoming sodden, especially during the winter. Since these
primulas are gross feeders, it is a good plan, where the soil is
poor, to add manure and rich compost to provide all the neces-
sary feeding requirements.
Even when the plants are well established, an occasional
top dressing of good rotted manure and leaf mould will not
only prevent the soil from drying out at any time, but will
improve the quality of growth and the size of the blooms.
They do object to sourness, so that where there is any possi-
bility of this, it is wise before putting in the plants, to take out
the soil to a depth approaching eighteen inches, and put in a
layer of stones or something similar to ensure porosity, and
then fill up with good soil and rotted manure to a depth
approaching eighteen inches. It is only necessary to add lime
where it is not naturally found in the soil.
In preparing the positions for planting, it should be borne
in mind that a much better effect can be obtained by placing
each type of primula in little groups of not less than three
plants, each group of different heights, providing a show
which will increase the effect of the next group. Odd plants
dotted here and there never produce a good show and look
bitty.
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