A welcome sign that spring is on its way
Primroses are one of the most reassuring sights in the late winter garden. Their soft colours and low growing habit bring life to borders, containers and shaded corners at a time when much of the garden still feels dormant. February is an ideal month to plant, care for and enjoy primroses, giving them time to establish before the main growing season begins.
Whether you are new to growing primroses or have relied on them for years, a little seasonal attention ensures they perform at their best.
Why Primroses Thrive in Late Winter
Primroses are naturally adapted to cool conditions. In the wild they emerge as winter loosens its grip, making February an excellent time to work with them rather than against the season.
Planting primroses now allows roots to settle into cool, moist soil. This early establishment supports stronger flowering and healthier growth through spring. For gardeners, primroses offer colour without the need for forcing or protection.
Gertrude Jekyll once wrote that flowers should look as though they belong where they grow. Primroses achieve this effortlessly at this time of year.
Primroses Available Now
Primroses are in our stores now, bringing fresh colour just when it is most welcome. Visiting in person allows you to see the full range and choose plants at their peak, while our social media channels regularly share updates and images of what is currently in bloom.
If you are planning late winter planting or refreshing containers near the house, now is an ideal time to pick out healthy, ready to plant primroses.
Choosing the Right Position
Primroses prefer partial shade, making them ideal for areas beneath trees, along shaded paths or at the front of borders. They also perform well in containers positioned away from harsh midday sun.
Soil should be moist but free draining. Heavy or waterlogged ground can cause roots to rot, particularly in colder weather. If planting in containers, ensure drainage holes are clear and compost is not compacted.
Planting Primroses in February
When planting primroses, avoid burying the crown. The point where leaves meet the soil should sit just above ground level. Planting too deeply is a common cause of poor performance.
Firm the soil gently around the roots and water in well. Even in winter, newly planted primroses benefit from consistent moisture, particularly during dry spells.
Spacing plants allows air circulation, which reduces the risk of disease as temperatures begin to rise.
Growing Primroses in Pots and Containers
Containers are one of the best ways to enjoy primroses close to the home during late winter and early spring. They are ideal for doorways, patios and sheltered corners where their colour can be appreciated daily.
Primroses look particularly effective when grouped together. Our primrose planters, priced at £7.99, are designed to show them off beautifully and provide the drainage they need to thrive. For instant impact, we also offer six primroses for £7.99, making it easy to create a full display in one go.
Choose a quality compost, water regularly and position containers where they receive gentle light and shelter from strong winds. Even in cooler weather, pots should be checked frequently to prevent drying out.
Caring for Established Primroses
Primroses already in the garden need little intervention in February, but light care improves their appearance and longevity.
Remove any damaged or yellowing leaves to keep plants tidy and reduce the risk of fungal problems. During prolonged cold spells, a light mulch around the base can protect roots without smothering the plant.
Avoid heavy feeding at this stage. Primroses respond better to gentle feeding later in spring once active growth increases.
Propagation and Long Term Care
More experienced gardeners often divide primroses after flowering finishes. While this task comes later in the year, February is a good time to observe which plants are thriving and which may benefit from division in summer.
Given the right conditions, primroses will naturalise over time, returning each year with stronger displays and minimal effort.
A Simple Plant with Lasting Impact
Primroses bring quiet confidence to the late winter garden. They do not demand attention, yet they reward it with steady colour and resilience when little else is flowering.
By planting primroses in February and giving them the right start, you extend their flowering season and create a garden that feels alive well before spring fully arrives. For many gardeners, primroses are not just a plant, but a promise that the growing season has begun.