Iceland Poppy (P. nudicaule) - Key Growing Information

'Champagne Bubbles' pink Iceland poppy (Papaver nudicaule) in bloom at Johnny's research farm.

DAYS TO GERMINATION:

7-12 days at 65-75°F (18-24°C)

SOWING:

Transplant - Sow into 128-cell or other small cell tray 6-8 weeks before transplanting. Cover seeds very lightly. Bottom water or mist to avoid displacing seeds and soil. Harden off and transplant outdoors, or transplant directly into a covered structure. Direct seed - Sow in early spring, fall, or winter. Iceland poppies grow best in cooler conditions – below 70°F. Bloom production and quality declines as temperatures rise. Surface-sow and keep soil evenly moist until seedlings emerge. Pinching plants is not necessary or beneficial.

LIGHT PREFERENCE:

Sun/Part Shade.

PLANT HEIGHT:

15-20".

PLANT SPACING:

6-12".

HARDINESS ZONES:

Zones 4-9. Blooms late spring until summer in northern climates and early spring until early summer in warmer climates when grown outdoors. Prefers cool summers and will readily self-sow. May be annual or perennial depending on growing conditions.

VASE LIFE:

5-7 days.

HARVEST:

As the buds just begin to open and show a bit of color but before they fully expand. Place in clear water.

SOIL REQUIREMENTS:

Moist, well-drained soil.

USES:

Cut flower. Beds, borders, mass plantings, and containers.

SCIENTIFIC NAME:

Papaver nudicaule

Poppy