Cool And Colorful
The jewel-tone blossoms of primroses can brighten a windowsill or illuminate a basket on the breakfast table. Pair them with blooming bulbs for a burst of spring, or place one fabulous flowering plant in an oversize teacup for a simple statement.

Purchase plants with a few open blooms to determine color, and look down into the rosette for additional buds. Choose plants with healthy, lush green foliage, avoiding those with yellow leaves.

Care is simple, and primroses are forgiving. Soil must be kept moist, or the plant will wilt and the leaves yellow. If you forget to water and discover a badly wilted plant, don't despair. Place the primrose in the sink, in a saucer of tepid water. Allow the soil to rehydrate from the bottom, and then place the plant in a very cool place to recover. (We're gone so far as to revive a badly wilted plant in the refrigerator.)

Not unlike forced bulbs, a primrose's place is usually in the crisp spring garden. When used indoors, it will last longest if kept cool. Consider moving these flowers to an unheated garage or storage area at night or during the day when you're not at home. Primroses love a sunny spot and will bloom for weeks on end outdoors. A proper environment reduces the need for watering, and maintenance becomes less demanding.

Reasonably priced and full of color, these plants are a breath of fresh air, guaranteed to give you a lift.