Papaver Rhoeas act as perennials in moderate climates, but they perform as annuals where freezing temperatures and snow occur in winter. These poppies germinate most successfully in cool to moderate temperatures and they are, in fact, frost tolerant. Poppies flower best under cool spring weather conditions. Bloom decreases on poppies as temperatures increase in summer months.
In growing zones 3 – 7, the Red Corn Poppy, Shirley Poppy – Mixed Colors and the Shirley Poppy – Mixed Double seeds can be planted in late autumn or early spring when a light frost is still possible.
In zones 8 – 10, these poppy seeds should be sown in late autumn or winter.
Poppies only need soil that is ordinary and moist, but well drained. The seeds should not be planted deeply; they just need to be covered with soil. The best method for planting is to mix one part seed with 5 parts sand and scatter over the prepared growing area.
These varieties of poppy seeds generally germinate in about 20 days. You can thin the seedlings to 6” to 8” apart after they emerge.
If planting in rows, then plant the seeds 6” to 8” apart.
Poppies do best if planted directly outdoors in their intended location rather than transplanting them. However, if necessary, they can be started in biodegradable peat pots indoors before the last spring frost. The entire peat pot can then be planted outdoors once the poppy seedlings are established.
Poppies should be watered regularly, but they can tolerate dry conditions. It is not necessary to fertilize poppies.
Red Corn Poppy and Shirley Poppy varieties can reach 2’ to 4’ in height at maturity with flowers up to 2” across.
It generally takes about 60 to 90 days for poppies to bloom after the seed is planted. This timing depends very much on your growing zone and when you plant, along with Mother Nature’s cooperation. The bloom season for poppies is spring to summer. Poppy plants will bloom for a few weeks, but the length of bloom time can be extended by regular watering and application of mulch for moisture retention, as well as regular dead-heading of spent flowers. It is also recommended that the seed be sown in successive plantings to extend the bloom season of the poppies..
