California Poppy Red Chief

Description

California Poppy Red Chief

California Poppy Red Chief. The ultimate self-seed ground cover annual that will grow almost anywhere producing a profusion of colour on 6 to 10 inches stems with silky 2-3 inch wide cups in a stunning carmine red, above mounds of attractive feathery grey-green foliage. Loves hot, dry areas and poor soils. Excellent for seeding large areas and filling in the gaps in the herbaceous border. Blooms spring into summer, especially in cool weather. Great fillers in flower beds and containers.

Cultivation Advice California Poppy Red Chief

• Plant seed directly outdoors early through mid-spring in a sunny location with well-drained soil.
• Cultivate soil, mix seeds with cup of sand or soil and broadcast lightly over planting area.
• Lightly rake into soil or cover lightly to a depth of 1/8 inch.
• Can be sown in the autumn in mild winter areas
• (they will self-seed and survive the winter more than adequately by themselves).
• Keep soil moderately moist during germination.
• When plants are about 2 inches tall, thin 8 to 12 inches apart to get the best display.
• Poppies do not transplant well. Avoid over-watering once plants are established.
• Remove or cut off old flower bases for continued flowering throughout summer.
• Plants will self-sow if left to their own devices.
• California poppies thrive on a certain amount of neglect.