Rough Draft11/9/2021
Intro
On March 2, 1903 the California poppy became the official state flower of California. The plant’s bright orange flowers are an unmatched symbol of the Golden State. Some have announced that perhaps this flower is viewed as a floral representation of the “fields of gold” sought during the gold rush. It’s documented that the California Indians cherished the poppy as both a source of food and for oil extracted from the pla
Planting and the Care of Poppies
Growing
Direct seeding is known as the best possible way to start poppies. Plant very close to the surface of the soil. The best time to plant is in early spring when the soil is still cool and light frost is possible. There are two choices when planting poppies. 1. Plant and let them drop seeds and accumulate by spreading and thriving on their own. Or 2. Once planted leave space between plants that are in near proximity. Deadhead flowers once they bloom and start to wilt. This is a serious practice because new seeds will drop from dead flower blooms. This is also how to control the spread of poppies. The seeds should start to germinate in about 2 weeks. These are drought-tolerant plants which are vibrant and a favorite for use in container gardens and even rock gardens.
Sun and Water
These blooms can be a long lasting flower with a beautiful orange hue. The California Poppy needs full sun to grow and bloom. Full sun means at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. With poppies the more sunlight the better. When it comes to watering it only needs to be watered every 1-2 weeks in hot weather or 3-4 in cool weather. They truly are drought tolerant flowers.
Conclusion
These flowers are really a favorite because they can be enjoyed from early spring to early fall. What is really interesting is that this flower will close at night or on cloudy days. It’s said that this is how the poppy protects its pollen for daylight pollinators such as insects, bees, or butterflies. Adding poppies to a garden or landscape is a way to have a popping yellow or orange hue to enjoy. This is a flowering plant that would be nice behind or in clusters next to summer marigolds or complement purple petunias.
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