Pot up primulas

I love primroses of all kinds and carpets of the native Primula vulgaris beneath hazel woodland or on a mossy bank beneath a hedge are as beautiful as any border. But I also love to pot some up, either lifted from the garden or using some from the many different hybrid colours bought especially, so they can be appreciated in a more intimate fashion. They always look good planted in terracotta pots or pans and need no special treatment other than a multi-purpose, peatfree compost.

A good finishing touch is to dress the pot with a mulch of moss raked from the lawn which, as well as looking good, keeps the primroses’ roots cool and moist, which they love. Early spring bulbs like as much sun and light as February can give them, but primulas will be happy in light shade, placed near the house where I can enjoy them.