Blue Poppies

[Lonnie]

Does anyone know the best way to propogate Blue Poppy seeds, this is for my wife, I stick to Vegetables. Thanks.

[Thunderbird+]

I think this one needs a "womans touch" it seems very fussy and difficult to get established (at least for me) I've tried 2 pkts of seed and even bought a plant, but alas no success.

Hope someone comes along with a magik answer Good Luck.

[Lonnie]

Thanks form replying Thunderbird+, I think now its her lifed ambition to grow them successfully from seed, maybe if you do manage it, start a new thread, and i'll see it, i'll also do the same, meanwhile, lets hope someone comes up with the knowhow.

[hammerman]

They are pretty difficult to grow from seed requiring a period of cold.

I can't recall exactly how to do it but i'll look it up....they're very challenging !!!

[Lonnie]

Thanks hammerman, that'd be handy.

[jason1980]

How to grow Hybrid Blue Poppy: Sow in a paper towel that has been wet and wrung out. Fold seeds inside the towel and put in a baggie. Store in fridge for 4 weeks. Then gently press the seed into the surface of wet seed-growing medium--this seed requires light for germination (but no sun!). Growing temperatures should be no more than 65F/18C. Bottom water or gently mist; don't let it dry out. Start 2-3 months before your last frost date to take advantage of the coolest part of your year or sow outside in fall. This plant hates heat and is perennial only in climates with cool summers. As with any poppy, watch for damping off; scant sowing, good ventilation, or a sterile soil mix like vermiculite and peat help prevent that. Transplant to rich, moist soil (dig in plenty of Black Cow and some peat for acidity) and dappled shade or morning sun and afternoon shade). The flower's coloring is connected with the soil pH--a more acid (peaty) soil means more blue coloration. Mulch well to keep soil moist. Watch out for slugs. Keep well fertilized and deadhead to promote more flowers. The flowers will develop into seed-filled pods. Divide the plants every third year.

[Lonnie]

Thanks Jason1980, i'll pass this on.