Polyanthus Growing Guide

Primula polyantha hybrids, Primula vulgaris and other Primula species

Polyanthus

Crop Rotation Group

Miscellaneous ●

Soil

Fertile, well-drained soil enriched with compost, with a neutral to slightly acidic pH.

Position

Partial shade, especially afternoon shade.

Frost tolerant

Yes, polyanthus are hardy perennials. Well-rooted plants are hardy to -34°C (-30°F).

Feeding

Drench with a liquid organic fertiliser when plants begin to produce new leaves in spring.

Spacing

Single Plants: 30cm (11") each way (minimum)
Rows: 30cm (11") with 30cm (11") row gap (minimum)

Sow and Plant

Polyanthus can be started from seed, which is a good way to explore different types. Start seeds indoors in late winter, barely pressing them into moist seed starting mix. At room temperature seeds should sprout within 21 days. Grow under bright light, and set out hardened-off seedlings in late summer and autumn. You also can start with a purchased plant, which are widely available during the cooler months. Container grown plants that are set out during the cooler months often do very well establishing themselves as permanent garden residents. Young plants need water when they are actively growing. A surface mulch suppresses weeds while making the plants look more attractive.
Our Garden Planner can produce a personalised calendar of when to sow, plant and harvest for your area.

Notes

Primroses are beloved European wildflowers that help open the spring season. In addition to Primula species, colourful hybrids raised in winter greenhouses and sold in spring are surprisingly hardy in the garden. The crinkled leaves appear first thing in spring, often alongside violets. Primulas are different from evening primrose (Oenothera species), which are a separate plant.

Harvesting

Most polyanthus are borne on stems too short for cutting, but Japanese primrose (P. japonica) is a taller plant, with blossoms borne on upright stems. When flowering ends, trim off old stems to better view primrose foliage.

Troubleshooting

Slugs and snails may chew smooth-edged holes in leaves in spring, and spider mites or aphids are occasional problems in the summer. Polyanthus are moderately resistant to animal browsing. Summer heat waves are hard on these little flowers, which may die back prematurely in response to hot weather.

Planting and Harvesting Calendar

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Pests which Affect Polyanthus