Poppy: Sowing, planting and harvest calendar
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Sowing outdoors
SO
SO
SO
SO
Bloom
B
B
B
B
How do you sow poppies outdoors?
For annual poppies such as the common poppy, sow directly where they will grow in spring or autumn, according to your climate and the seed packet. Choose sunshine and well-drained soil. Weed and break up the surface; tailor soil enrichment to the species, as California poppies prefer lean soil.
Scatter the small seeds thinly. Follow the supplier’s sowing depth and avoid burying them deeply. Water with a fine spray and keep the surface moist during germination without soaking the soil.
After germination, thin plants to the spacing recommended for the species and variety. About 20–30 cm suits many annual poppies, but not all poppies. Watch for slugs and remove weeds by hand to avoid damaging the roots.
When do poppies flower?
