03.
Cultivation & Harvesting
considerations for growing and harvesting california poppy
climate
California poppy thrives in dry, sandy areas, and will stand up well to heat. Does best in full sun, can be good for outdoor containers, rock gardens or xeriscapes.
soil
California poppy grows best in sandy, well-drained, poor soil.
growing
This plant does not transplant well and should be grown from seeds scattered
outdoors in the spring when the soil becomes workable. Scatter the seeds
where the plants are desired for summer bloom. This plant may seem like it
is a perennial, coming back in the same place every year due to
self-seeding. However, self-seeding may not produce plants identical to the
initial planted variety. Germinates in 7-14 days.
harvesting
Harvest California poppy leaves, stems and flowers during the growing season, use fresh or dried.
preserving
Dry the leaves, stems and flowers and store as smaller cut pieces in airtight containers in a cool, dry place.