California Poppy

Popular is an understatement, as Poppies come in many, many varieties, and are native to many parts of the world, including Central and Southern Europe, China, India, and other parts of Asia. It's popularity also stems from the diversity of it's use. In the garden, Poppies are an attractive, easy to grow flower in both annual and perennial varieties. As an added bonus, the home gardener can choose from almost any color in the rainbow , including black. It's flowers are long lasting. Poppy seeds and oil are popular for baking and cooking. If you have excess seed, you can put them in your backyard bird feeder. In the world of medicine, and drugs, some Poppies are a narcotic. It is used to make Codeine, Morphine, and Opium.

LIGHTING REQUIREMENTS: USDA hardiness zones: 5 through 10

CARE INSTRUCTIONS WATER: Allow to dry out between waterings.

FERTILIZER: Fertilize them once a month to promote steady growth. Mulching around the plants will help to keep weeds down and make the bed more attractive.

FLOWERING: Poppy will grow quickly and will bloom in early to mid summer.

SOIL: They will grow well in many types of soils and tolerate dry spells well.

DISEASE: Poppy are fairly resistant to insects and disease. If insect or disease problems occur, treat early with organic or chemical insect repellents and fungicide.