Q How do I plant primroses?

A Primroses need moist soil that’s preferably neutral to acidic. Add plenty of organic matter, such as leaf mould or garden compost, when planting.
Primroses can be grown in a sunny spot in cooler parts of the country but need part shade  anywhere likely to experience hot summer sun.
Ideally, plant in September when conditions are cool, the soil is still warm and the plant is actively growing. Alternatively, they can be planted in spring.

If you want to grow your primroses in pots, plant in autumn or spring, using a Best Buy compost for containers. Keep plants watered after planting, especially as the weather warms up in spring.

Which? Gardening magazine rated 25 commonly available varieties of primroses to find the best for our gardens. To discover our recommendations, subscribe online to Which? Gardening or call 029 2267 0000.

Caption: Primroses, such as 'Wanda Tomato Red', are best planted in September

Q How should I care for primroses?

A If growing in a pot, add a controlled-release fertiliser when planting, or liquid feed with a high potash food, such as tomato food, when the plants are coming into flower.
Deadhead primroses regularly and remove any yellowing or dead leaves as soon as you see them.
Plants benefit from being divided every few years. This is best done in early autumn, when the soil is still warm and the plants are actively growing.

Caption: Create new plants by dividing primroses in early autumn

Q What pests and diseases can affect primroses?

A Adult vine weevils eat notches out of the leaves, while their larvae eat the roots in autumn and spring, and are a particular problem in pots. Treat the compost with a biological control in late summer, or use a chemical drench. There are no effective treatments for plants grown in the ground.
Primroses are also prone to yellow and brown fungal leaf spots. Remove any affected leaves when you see them and spray with a fungicide if plants are badly affected.

Caption: Vine-weevil grubs eat primrose roots