Depending on the region, between March and April they can be found in many sunny meadows, on the edges of forests or forest clearings as well as on streams: the bright yellow flowers of the cowslip, also known as the key to heaven. This pretty plant has become rare in nature, but you can also enjoy it in your home garden - especially since it requires little care.
How do I care for cowslips properly?
Primroses need a sunny to partially shaded location, humus-rich and calcareous soil and sufficient water in dry periods. Fertilizing is not necessary, they are hardy and resistant to pests. No pruning required except to avoid self-seeding.
Where do cowslips feel particularly comfortable?
Primroses prefer a sunny to partially shaded location, preferably under trees.
What should the soil be like for cowslips?
The ideal soil is loose, permeable and also humus and calcareous. Soils that are too clayey can be improved with plenty of coarse sand and garden lime.
How much water does the cowslip need?
Outside the hot summer months, planted cowslips do not need any additional water. However, in hot and dry periods you should water abundantly and regularly - the root ball must not dry out. Some species - especially the stemless cowslip - retreat into their rhizomes when dry. Waterlogging should be avoided.
Do I have to fertilize cowslips?
Fertilization is not necessary for wild perennials.
Can I grow cowslips in a pot?
Primroses can be cultivated very well in pots and balcony boxes, provided they are regularly supplied with water and are in a suitable location. Here too, good drainage is required - i.e. H. Drainage of excess water – to be ensured.
How can I propagate cowslips?
The best way to propagate is through seeds, with cowslips self-sowing very reliably. But be careful: the plants mix very quickly with other types of cowslips and primroses. Otherwise, cowslips can also be divided.
Which pests/diseases are common in cowslips?
Primroses are very robust and are rarely attacked by pests or fungi.
Are cowslips hardy?
As a native species, cowslips are very hardy. Specimens only grown in pots should be protected from frost by Styrofoam and a pot border (e.g. jute).
Do you have to cut cowslips?
Primarily, cowslips do not need to be cut. You can only cut off flowering stems if you want to extend the flowering period and/or avoid self-sowing.
Good neighbors / Bad neighbors
Primroses harmonize very well with other spring bloomers, such as tulips, grape hyacinths, daffodils and similar bulbous plants.
Tip
If you come across wild cowslips on a trip into nature, you must not dig them up or pick them off and take them home. The plants are protected.
