A sprinkling of scarlet red blooms among swaying meadow grasses creates the perfect picture of the British countryside. This iconic species of annual Wild Poppy is instantly recognisable by its gently fluttering petals. Papaver rhoeas is extremely easy to grow and will happily seed throughout meadows, gravel gardens, wildlife areas and sunny borders. Leave the faded plants to set seed, and they will gradually form spreading drifts over the years. Height: 60cm (24″). Spread: 30cm (12″).

Sowing
Direct sow Poppy seeds outdoors where they are to grow in spring or autumn. Choose a position in full sun on fertile, well drained soil which has been raked to a fine tilth. Sow seeds thinly, just below the soil surface. Water the ground regularly, especially during dry periods. Germination usually takes 7 – 14 days. When Poppy seedlings are large enough to handle, thin them out to 30cm (12″) apart.

More Info
Feed and water poppy plants frequently throughout the summer. Annual Poppies can be left to set seed and die back naturally, before discarding the plants on the compost heap. The fallen seed will germinate in the following year to provide a new display

Sowing Months: March to May & August to Septemeber

Flowering Months: June to August