Primula auricula | photos by the writer
Time to get deep down dirty, right underneath the fingernails if you wish to create a large or small patch of ‘spring woodland’ in your garden, or in pots and containers.
All you need is a partially shady location, such as troublesome areas shaded by trees or shrubs. If correctly prepared, with a good ‘heap’ of medium to rich, water-retentive, preferably organic, compost/leaf mould, some mulch if possible, they are ideal for growing Primulas.
This huge genus of mainly herbaceous perennials — of which one member Primula denticulata is still found growing in its natural habitat in the Murree Hills — is, for climatic reasons, best treated as an annual in coastal areas and plains of the country. But it is a long-lived perennial in upland regions provided, on a garden scale, the selected species is given the cultivation requirements suited to its individual needs.
How about creating a patch of woodland in your garden?
Primulas are one of the few plant species that do not mind growing amongst tree/shrub roots and, if planted in ‘pockets’ of compost/humus-rich soil, Primulas actively seem to enjoy the company. These also thrive in as little as one hour of sunshine per day so are perfect for otherwise troublesome spots.
Such a ‘pocket’ should be two to three times the width and depth of the soil/compost in the plant pot you have purchased your established primula seedlings in and which — as ‘primula’ roots are extra fragile — should be disturbed as little as possible during the transplanting process. Gently holding the seedling in place, simply turn the plant pot upside down, give the base a sharp tap and the seedling, complete with its soil/compost, should fall out in one piece into your hand. Turn it the right way up and carefully insert it into the previously prepared ‘pocket’, water it in to settle it, spread a thin layer of mulch around to help retain soil moisture and there you have it.
To create a woodland impression, provide your brightly-coloured or in-pastel shades primulas with a softly-shifting backcloth of feathery ferns with a pretty rock or an unusual chunk of tree root/branch for more impact.
Organised and planted between October and the end of December — even into January if primula plants are late in reaching your local nurseries — you will, if watered regularly, have a peaceful patch of personal woodland to enjoy until summer heat brings flowering to a halt. Depending on exact location and on the amount of tender loving care given, the primulas may — or may not — survive to give a repeat performance year after year.