Primula allionii.. cutting back

[Lawrence]

I have a Primula allionii Broadwell Milkmaid which was given to me about 3 years ago, when the plant was about 8-9 years old ( I think? ) . I have been in the process of removing the dead leaves this afternoon, a rather long winded job that I have not yet finished. The plant seems to have lost some of its vigour ( not surprising in view of how prolifically it flowers every year), and some of the stems are a little thin. Do allionii types respond to cutting back, like I think some P. marginata types, and if so when?

[David Nicholson]

...........................................Do allionii types respond to cutting back, like I think some P. marginata types, and if so when?

I haven't tried cutting them back and I haven't read about it in either Mary Robinson's Primula book or in Bob and David Richards' Primula Allionii pamphlet in one of NAPS Guides. I have to say that I haven't seen it for marginata types either! If you are going to give it a try I would recommend that you take a batch of cuttings as well. February seems to be a good time to try as this is the time when the plants are starting into growth.

[Lawrence]

Thanks very much for your reply David