Culture 
Primroses are hardy perennials and will thrive in any 
soil if given good drainage, humus, and some protection 
from the hottest sun. Drainage is the most important. 
More Primroses die from crown rot, which means poor 
drainage, than are ever killed by the cold. 
Primroses require less sun and more water than most 
perennials, though well established plantings will take 
considerable sun. Humus (in the form of peat) dug into 
the top six inches of soil will keep the plants moist at 
all times with less watering. Planting on the north or 
east side of the house, in the shade of large shrubs or 
under trees will provide shade and cause the bloom to 
last longer. A shaded rockery is an ideal situation, 
except for the woodland types and the tall growing 
candelabras. 
If ground is heavy, old horse manure will lighten it 
and if very heavy such as clay or hard-pan, sharp sand 
should also be added. Cow manure will bind a light, 
sandy soil. 
Mulch during summer with peat, leaf-mold or spent 
horse manure and dress down in spring with cow 
manure or good compost. Never use chemical fertilizers. 
Snow is the best winter protection. If freezing occurs 
before snow, a gentle spray with the hose will cover 
the plants with ice and prevent them from drying out. 
Divide every two years or when clumps become 
crowded and the flowers diminish. 
