Papaver somniferum, 'Boudoir Babe'

Germination

Seeds best sown directly 5mm deep in 30cm long drills which are 15 cm apart. Germination will occur when the temp. reaches +20°C. Germination takes 10-30 days. Seedlings will appear in rows 6-8 weeks after planting. Thin seedlings to 20cm spacing. Can be sown indoors into moist seed compost, cover lightly with vermiculite. Propagate 12°C. Usually germinates in the dark. Germination 10-30 days. Transplant seedlings large enough to handle to 8cm pots. Acclimatise and plant out after danger of frost has passed with 45cm spacing. Can be sown in autumn for flowering the following year.

Growing

Easy to grow. Prefers a fertile soil. Prefers a cool summer.

Cultivation

Cut and come again variety. Cut flowers regularly to encourage growth and to prolong flowering window. Deadhead if you do not want it to self-seed.