Cowslip Seeds

A beloved native wildflower with nodding clusters of fragrant yellow blooms held on upright stems above rosettes of crinkled green leaves.

 

Cowslip flowers from early to mid spring and is a vital nectar source for bees butterflies and the caterpillars of the Duke of Burgundy fritillary. Traditionally found in meadows and hedgerows it brings gentle colour and ecological value to borders lawns and rewilding schemes.

 

This hardy perennial thrives in full sun or partial shade and prefers moist well drained soil. It is ideal for naturalistic planting wildlife gardens and early season pollinator support.

 

Easy to grow and long lived cowslip self seeds in favourable conditions and naturalises well in grassland settings.

 

Seed Qty Approx 0.2 grams

 

Sow May to October for natural vernalisation

Germination Slow and variable, 21 to 60 days at 10 to 15°C

Soil and Position Moist but well drained soil in sun or part shade

Height/Spread 15 to 25 cm tall, 20 to 30 cm spread

Flowering April to May

 

Sowing Instructions

 

Sow seeds on the surface of moist loam based compost and press lightly. Do not cover as light aids germination. Best sown from late spring to autumn to allow natural cold stratification. Germination is slow and may take several weeks. Transplant seedlings into individual pots when large enough to handle. Plant out in autumn or spring spacing 20 to 30 cm apart.

 

Grow and Maintenance

 

Water regularly during dry spells and avoid waterlogging. Cowslip prefers cool conditions and benefits from partial shade in warmer climates. Deadhead spent blooms or allow to self seed. Cut back foliage after flowering to maintain shape. Suitable for meadows borders and wildlife schemes.

 

Uses and Benefits

 

Fragrant yellow blooms in early spring

Supports bees butterflies and specialist moths

Hardy perennial for meadows and borders

Naturalises well and self seeds

Ideal for rewilding and pollinator friendly planting

 

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