[jmc1949]

I bought some cowslip seeds to grow for a woodland area at the back of my allotment. The instructions tell me I can sow anytime between February and August. They need 4 weeks of 20 degree and then 4 weeks in a fridge to get the best results. I wish I had read the instructions before I bought the packet.

Does anyone have any experience of growing cowslips from seed. I have googled how to cultivate these plants and get conflicting advice, eg sow August for germination next spring is one, some say basal cuttings are best. It sounds as if they are difficult to cultivate. Any advice welcome.

[jaydig]

I've never tried to grow them from seed, but the ones I bought in a pot some years ago seem to have merrily seeded themselves around.  Likewise the little natural primroses.

[jmc1949]

I did wonder if that was the way forward but £1.50 for approx. 100 seeds seemed reasonable. I've actually sown the seeds as described on the packet, it's obviously a long process getting them to germinate so will see what happens. I Think I'll also buy a couple of plants and see if they increase naturally and try taking basal cuttings.