Description
Corn Poppy (Papaver rhoeas) – Planting & Care Guide
- Habit/Hardiness: Cool-season annual; blooms late spring–early summer. Best in USDA zones 3–9 (cool spring).
- Light: Full sun (6+ hrs).
Soil
- Type: Well-drained sandy/loam; average to poor fertility.
- pH: 6.0–7.5.
- Prep: Minimal; avoid rich, wet soil. Do not over-fertilize.
Planting (best direct-sown; hates transplanting)
- Timing: Sow outdoors late fall to early spring. In cold climates, sow as soon as soil is workable; in mild climates, fall/winter sowing is ideal.
- Depth: Surface-sow; press seeds onto soil, do not cover (or a dusting of soil/sand).
- Spacing: Broadcast thinly; thin seedlings to 6–10 in (15–25 cm).
- Cold assist: Freeze–thaw helps germination. Indoors not recommended; if starting, use biodegradable pots and transplant very young.
Water
- Keep lightly moist until germination (10–21 days). After establishment, water sparingly—drought tolerant; avoid soggy soil.
Feeding
- Not needed. Excess nutrients = weak, floppy growth.
Care
- Minimal. Weed lightly (shallow roots). No pruning needed.
- Deadhead to extend bloom, or allow pods to mature and self-seed for future displays.
Containers
- Not ideal due to taproot; if attempted, use a deep pot, sow in place, and avoid disturbance.
Pests/Diseases
- Generally trouble-free. Watch damping-off in wet, crowded seedlings; provide drainage and airflow.
Notes
- Reseeds readily; mark desired areas and pull extras.
- For even sowing, mix seed with fine sand before broadcasting.
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