The auricle is native to the Alps and is therefore very robust. It is hardy and needs little care even in summer. There are just a few points that you need to keep in mind when caring for auricles in the garden or in pots.
How do I properly care for auricles?
Auricles require little care: They are hardy and prefer nutrient-poor, permeable soil. Only water when the soil is dry and avoid fertilizer in the garden. Orchid fertilizer is allowed in the pot. They are transplanted or repotted in autumn.
Can auricles also be cared for in a pot?
As robust as auricles are, they cannot cope with too much moisture. It is therefore advisable to grow the flower in a pot because the water supply can be regulated better here.
Does the auricle need to be cast?
Since the auricle tolerates moisture poorly, it should be grown in very permeable soil in the garden. Watering is only done when the soil is completely dry.
Auricles in pots should only be watered when the top layer of soil has dried out. Make sure that excess water can drain away and pour water out of the saucer.
From October onwards, it is best to place auricles in the pot in a place where they are protected from rain.
Why should you avoid fertilizer?
Auricles are used to nutrient-poor soils in their homeland. You should therefore avoid fertilizer in the garden because if the nutrient supply is too high, the plant will hardly bloom and will quickly be attacked by harmful fungi.
When caring for the pot, you can give a little orchid fertilizer (€7.00 on Amazon) every now and then.
Can auricles be transplanted or repotted?
It is recommended to repot or transplant auricles every year. The best time for this is September and October. The plant is divided straight away and the newly created perennials are placed in different pots or planted in the desired locations in the garden.
What diseases and pests should you watch out for?
- Gray horse
- Snails
- Root lice
- Bigmouth Weevil
When gray mold appears, the plant rots. She can then no longer be saved.
How is the auricle overwintered?
Auricles are completely hardy. Even if the ball of the pot freezes completely, it's not a big deal. However, the soil should be completely dry.
It is not necessary to overwinter indoors or cover the plants outdoors.
Tip
The auricle is the original form of the better-known primrose. There are numerous varieties that bloom in many different colors. It has even been possible to re-breed an extinct variety with striped flowers.
