California Poppy – MIg

Description

California Poppies are drought-tolerant annuals known for their silky, cup-shaped blooms in vibrant shades of orange, yellow, and red. These low-maintenance flowers thrive in sunny spots and are excellent for mass planting, borders, and pollinator gardens. Once established, they bloom continuously and self-seed for future seasons.

When to Plant in the UAE

• Direct Sowing: Sow seeds outdoors from late October to early December, when temperatures drop to 18°C–28°C, providing the ideal cool-season conditions for germination and flowering.

Note: These poppies do best when directly sown into the soil and are not suited for transplanting due to delicate roots.

Tips for Planting

• Sunlight: Full sun (at least 6 hours/day)

• Soil: Loose, sandy, or well-drained soil – avoid heavy clay

• Sowing: Scatter seeds thinly over the surface and press lightly into soil without covering deeply

• Watering: Lightly water until germination (usually 7–14 days), then reduce watering once plants establish

• Spacing: Thin seedlings to 15–20 cm apart

• Bloom Time: Begins in 60–75 days, continues into early spring