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Re: [PRIMROSES] Tree Roots & Primroses

Michael D. Cook wrote:
>
> I have a few P. polyanthus planted in unimproved soil between large tree
> roots, where they rise above hostas, small ferns, and other primroses
> planted farther away from the tree.  It's a pretty sight, esp. in the
> spring.  Those planted by roots were planted where weeds or grass had
> formerly grown w/o damaging the tree. I am copying (from a gardening book)
> a sweep composed entirely of primroses at the base of a tree (allowing for
> trunk room) next to a patio ringed with various shade plants.  If I can
> ever get auriculas to overwinter (I can't understand why they haven't so
> far), I have a spot reserved for them by a bend in a small,
> partially-shaded walk.
> About auriculas:  Those I have planted were bought and planted while
> flowering, because I had particular colors I wanted and the tags never told
> what color bloom to expect.  Other than that, they were treated just like
> polyanthus - so why do they die over winter?  They are supposed to be hardy
> here, and I do mulch lightly, but in truth, they look half-dead by the time
> fall rolls around.
>
> Sheila S.
> Zone 5/6

This is not to be considered authority, because I was never such a
garden failure as when I tried to garden in southern Idaho (zone COLD).
Keeep in mind I am now in zone 8.
On that note....make sure that the roots stay in moist soil through the
winter, as a freeze will dessicate the roots if the soil is dry.  I have
them in my garden planted under an azalea and also under 2 mature fir
trees.  The firs tend try to dry out in winter because I don't hook the
hose up as often, but they come back every year, tho they truely look to
be on the brink of death during the winter.
  I have to mention how I developed this garden from tinder dry woodland
to lush perennial gardens....get the 1/2" main line for a drip system,
and rather than putting drippers into it, put 1/4" feeder lines and
purchase these little stakes that allow the line to run up thru it.  At
the top of the stake, you can purchase Spot Spitters.  These are like
small oscillating sprinkler heads.  Now go back and put a hose fitting
end onto the 1/2" hose.  Either bury the hose for aesthetics, or plant
heavily.  Drag the hose out there every 7-10 days, and you can have a
virtual Eden.

The Greenhouse
81 S. Bagley Creek Road & Hwy 101
Port Angeles, WA  98362
(360) 417-2664
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