Primrose
Flower
Sow indoors 8-10 weeks before last frost in peat or coir pots to prevent root disturbance. That’s the third week in January to the first week in February on the coast. Otherwise direct sow the seeds in early spring, or autumn in mild winter areas. Seeds should germinate in 5-30 days.
Primrose
How to Grow:
Flower
Timing:
Sow indoors 8-10 weeks before last frost in peat or coir pots to prevent root disturbance. That’s the third week in January to the first week in February on the coast. Otherwise direct sow the seeds in early spring, or autumn in mild winter areas. Seeds should germinate in 5-30 days.
Starting:
Just cover the small seeds, and germinate at 18°-21°C (65°-70°F). Oenothera seeds require darkness to break dormancy.
Growing:
Ideal pH: 5.5-7.0.Space plants 13-23cm (5-9″) apart. Plant in light, well drained soil. Sandy soil works well for this plant. Oenothera is tolerant of dry and is a good candidate for xeriscaping. In really fertile soil the foliage can be robust, but fewer flowers form. Top dress with fully composted manure in the spring. Provide irrigation during long hot spells, and cut the plants back by a third after flowering to keep them looking neat. Hot summer weather may cause the plants to briefly stop flowering. Powdery mildew sometimes appears in humid conditions.
Harvest: