October's plant of the month: primula
Primulas, please! A pop of colour for £1.99
October’s here, and as the nights draw in, we’re leaning into colour—and primulas are bringing it in spades. These cheerful little blooms are our Plant of the Month, and at just £1.99 each, they’re a brilliant way to brighten up borders, pots, and pathways.
Primulas are hardy, low-maintenance, and flower early—making them perfect for adding a splash of joy to autumn and beyond. With their rosettes of vibrant petals in purples, pinks, yellows and reds, they’re a favourite for gardeners who want instant impact without the fuss.
Why we love them:
Primulas are the ultimate mood-lifters on crisp autumn days. The tight burst of jewel-toned petals – think fuchsia, sunny yellow, and violet – stand out against fading foliage and greyer skies. They thrive in borders, pots, window boxes, even under trees where other flowers struggle.
Care tips for happy primulas
Plant in partial shade or dappled light
Use rich, well-drained soil – a soil mix with plenty of organic matter (compost or leaf mould) retains moisture without waterlogging roots.
Water whenever the top inch of soil feels dry. Aim for consistent moisture, not soggy soil.
Feed for more flowers – every four to six weeks, apply a balanced liquid feed to encourage continuous blooming through winter.
As temperatures dip, add a thin layer of mulch (like shredded bark) around the base to protect roots from hard frost.
Snip off faded flowers at the stem to redirect energy into fresh buds and a tidier display.