Growing poppies from seed:

• Is easy!

• Growing California poppies from seed is a rewarding process, as these vibrant flowering plants are well-suited to sunny environments with well-draining soil.

• Once established, California poppies are low-maintenance and drought-tolerant, turning gardens into a spectacular display of orange blooms.

Direct Sow into the garden:

• Timing: 2-4 weeks before last spring frost (Cold is needed for germination)

• Seed Depth: Surface Sow

• Germination time: 7-10 days

Quick Guide

Plant Specifications

Light Preference

Plant Height

Plant Spacing

Hardiness

Full Sun

12-16"

6-8"

Annual Zones 3-8

Perennial Zones 9-11

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Step-by-step Guide

Materials Needed:

• Seeds

• Garden soil

• Trowel or garden fork

• Watering can or garden hose

• Mulch (optional)

Instructions:

1. Timing:

   • Early spring is ideal for sowing seeds, especially in cooler climates. In warmer regions, fall planting allows the seeds to stratify naturally over winter.

2. Select a planting site:

   • Choose a sunny location

   • Make sure the soil is well-draining. Sandy or rocky soils are ideal as they mirror the poppy's natural habit.

3. Prepare the soil:

   • Loosen the soil to a depth of about 6 inches (15 cm) using a trowel or garden fork.

   • Remove any weeds, stones, or debris.

   • If the soil is heavy, consider mixing in some sand to improve drainage.

4. Plant the Seeds:

   • Scatter the seeds thinly across the prepared soil surface. Poppies prefer to be surface sown as they need light to germinate.

   • Lightly press the seeds into the soil, but do not cover them.

5. Water Gently:

   • Use a watering can or gentle spray nozzle on the water hose to gently water seeds.

   • Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged until the seeds germinate, which can take 10-15 days.

6. Thin Seedlings:

   • Once seedlings have a few real leaves and are about 2 inches tall, thin them to about 6-10 inches apart. This ensures the plants have enough space to grow and reduces competition for nutrients.

7. Ongoing Care:

   • Water as needed to keep the soil lightly moist during the growing season. Once established, California poppies are drought-tolerant.

   • Weed regularly to prevent competition.

   • Mulch can be added to help retain moisture and suppress weeds, but it's not essential.

8. Enjoy Blooms:

   • California poppies typically bloom in late spring through summer.

   • Deadheading (removing spent flowers) can encourage more blooms.

9. Harvest Seeds:

   • After the bloom period, allow some seed pods to dry on the plant if you wish to collect seeds for future planting.

   • Harvest the pods and store the seeds in a cool, dry place.

Following these steps will help ensure a beautiful display of California poppies in your garden!