Endeavour to give the plants a robust constitution from the first, for weak, rickety things cannot produce a satisfactory bloom.  Primulas need a long period of growth before they flower; hence they should never be subjected to a forcing temperature.  Sufficient heat must be provided to raise the plants, but afterwards the aim should be to render Primulas as nearly hardy as possible before cold weather sets in.  There must, however, be ample protection against frost, damp, and cutting winds.

==Primula stellata== (=Star Primula=).—­This elegant strain of Primula, introduced by us in 1895, has attained a high position in popular favour.  Although it is not intended to supersede or compete with the splendid strains of =P. sinensis=, it is a most valuable addition to the conservatory, and will be found indispensable for general decorative work.  The plants are unusually floriferous and continue in bloom for a long time.  When cut, the sprays travel well and remain fresh in water many days.  For table adornment Star Primulas are unsurpassed by any other greenhouse flower at their own period of the year.  The culture is precisely the same as for =P. sinensis=.

==Half-hardy Primula==.—­This section, which embraces a number of very charming species, includes the well-known =P. obconica grandiflora,= which is almost perpetual-blooming under glass.  Seed of this Primula may be sown from February to July, from the earliest of which the plants will flower in autumn and continue to bloom throughout the winter.  In the early stages the seedlings may be managed as already directed for =P. sinensis=, bearing in mind that excessive watering should be avoided.  Cool greenhouse treatment will suit the plants well.

Another half-hardy variety which has recently attained wide popularity is =P. malacoides=.  The dainty flowers are produced tier upon tier to a height of about two feet and are very sweetly perfumed.  For a winter display sow in February, and successional sowings may be made until July. =P. malacoides= especially resents a forcing temperature.  Therefore the culture should be as nearly hardy as possible, and even in the seedling stage the plants must have free access of air on all suitable occasions, or they are very liable to damp off.

==Hardy Primula.==—­A number of very elegant garden Primulas are worthy of attention.  The majority answer well when grown in borders, but they are especially at home in rock or Alpine gardens.  The family is now so large and so variable in time of blooming that it is possible to have the different species in flower during almost every month of the year.  As a rule, it is advisable to raise the seedlings in pots or pans placed in a frame or greenhouse, and to transfer them to the open ground when thoroughly hardened off.

==Ranunculus==

==Half-hardy perennial==