Description—A mix of annuals and perennials, members of the poppy family produce single-stemmed flowers in springtime. Perched on stalks ranging from 2" to 4' high, the blossoms come in a variety of shapes, forms and colors.

Best traits—These prolific bloomers tend to reseed abundantly and are drought-tolerant. Favored for their ornamental appeal, the striking wildflowers come in hues ranging from yellow, orange and pink to red, cream and lilac.

In the garden—Poppies can be grown in large pots, perennial flower beds, cutting gardens, borders, and mixed in with spring-flowering bulbs and other wildflowers. They are especially attractive planted en masse. Shirley poppies make excellent cut flowers and should be harvested when they look as though they are about to open; to make them last, sear stem bottoms with a flame.

Note: The decorative seedpods of the bread poppy make attractive additions to dried floral arrangements. Its seeds, which have been harvested for centuries as a food ingredient, also are commonly found in commercial birdseed mixes.


GROWING TIPS

• In the low desert, sow seeds in fall. In higher elevations, wait until the soil can be easily worked.

• Poppies may be grown in rocky native soil or in well-drained fertile soil. Sow seed where it will get at least six hours of sunlight.

• Water every two to three days until seedlings appear; then reduce to about once every week or two during the growing and blooming periods. Avoid over-watering, as flowers tend to droop. Supplemental fertilization is not necessary.



RECOMMENDED VARIETIES
• Bread poppy (Papaver somniferum)
• California poppy (Eschscholzia californica)
• Mexican gold poppy (E. mexicana)
• Shirley poppy (P. rhoeas)