Poppy - Giant Rattle Breadseed Poppy (Papaver somniferum) Organic, Non GMO - Flower

Poppy - Giant Rattle Breadseed Poppy (Papaver somniferum) Organic, Non GMO - Flower

Annual

Healing Properties: The Giant Rattle Breadseed Poppy (Papaver somniferum) is primarily cultivated for its ornamental beauty and culinary uses. While it belongs to the poppy family, it is not the opium poppy, and its seeds are commonly used in baking and cooking.

Growing Instructions:

• Soil Preparation: Plant poppy seeds in well-draining soil with a slightly alkaline pH. Rich, loamy soil is ideal. Work organic matter into the soil to enhance fertility.
• Sowing Time: Directly sow poppy seeds outdoors in early spring or late fall. Ensure the danger of frost has passed and the soil has warmed.
• Sowing Method: Scatter the tiny poppy seeds over the prepared soil surface. Gently press them into the soil without covering them too deeply, as they require light to germinate.
• Germination Time and Rate: Poppy seeds typically germinate within 10 to 20 days. The germination rate can vary, but providing optimal conditions increases success.
• Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist during the germination period. Once the seedlings emerge, gradually reduce watering to encourage drought tolerance.
• Sunlight: Giant Rattle Breadseed Poppies thrive in full sun. Ensure they receive at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight each day.
• Spacing: Thin seedlings to a spacing of about 8-12 inches apart when they reach a few inches in height. This ensures proper air circulation and prevents overcrowding.
• Fertilization: Poppies generally don't require heavy fertilization. A balanced, general-purpose fertilizer applied during the growing season should be sufficient.
• Maintenance: Poppies are relatively low-maintenance. Remove weeds to reduce competition for nutrients. Stake taller varieties if needed to support the flower heads.
• Harvesting Seeds: Allow the poppy pods to dry on the plants. When the pods turn brown and the tops begin to open, harvest the seeds. Cut the stems and place them upside down in a paper bag to collect any remaining seeds.
• Culinary Uses: The seeds of the Giant Rattle Breadseed Poppy are commonly used in baking and cooking. Harvest the seeds for culinary purposes after the pods have fully dried.
• Cultivating the Giant Rattle Breadseed Poppy provides not only vibrant blooms but also a delightful addition to your culinary endeavors. Enjoy the beauty of these ornamental poppies while savoring the unique flavor and texture of their seeds in your favorite recipes.
• Seed count: 50