Poppy Seeds - California

Minimum Seeds per Packet: 150

Packet Weight: 0.5g

Planting Season: After Last Frost

Sowing Method: Direct Seed

Seed Depth: 1/8”

Direct Seed Spacing: 3-6"

Soil Temperature: 60℉

Days to Sprout: 10-15

Mature Spacing: 8-10"

Sun Requirement: Full Sun or Partial Shade

Frost Tolerance: Frost Sensitive

Days to Harvest: 90-120

Production Cycle: Annual

Bed Preparation

Clear an area with full sun. Loosen top layer of soil to allow germinating seeds to penetrate the surface. Poppies are self-seeding annuals in cooler climates or perennials in warmer climates, with the exception of P. orientale which is a hardy perennial in most regions.

Planting 

Direct seed in fall, winter, or early spring before the last frost. Seed needs light to germinate. Sow seeds on top of soil and press down lightly. Seeds germinate within 20-30 days. Thin seedlings so that mature plants are 6-12” apart, depending on desired density of flowers.

Harvest

Annuals flower in the first year, while P. orientale will flower in its second year. Harvest flowers in the morning to avoid moisture loss. Cut stems where they meet leaves for optimal healing of plants. After seed pods have completely dried, open seeds and pour into a non-porous container as seeds are very small.

Seed Saving

After seed pods have completely dried, open seeds and pour into a non-porous container as seeds are generally very small.