Growing Non-GMO Carmine King California Poppy Flower Seeds

While stratification is not required for Carmine King California Poppy seeds, a brief period of cold treatment can improve germination rates. To do this, place seeds in a refrigerator for 2-4 weeks before sowing or plant 2-4 weeks before the final frost of spring is expected. It is best to sow these seeds directly outdoors, as they do not transplant well.

Sow the seeds in early spring or fall, depending on your climate. In areas with mild winters (USDA zones 8-10), fall sowing is ideal as it allows the seeds to take advantage of winter rains and cooler temperatures. In colder regions, sow in early spring as soon as the soil can be worked. Sow seeds at surface level, rake them lightly with soil, and tamp in. To ensure healthy growth, space seeds approximately 6-8 inches apart, or broadcast. This spacing allows each plant enough room to spread and develop its characteristic bushy growth habit. Mixing the seeds with sand can help to more evenly distribute the seeds.

Carmine King California Poppies prefer well-draining sandy or loamy soil with low fertility. High-fertility soils can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of blooms. The seeds germinate best at temperatures between 55 F and 65 F. Ensure that the soil is not too cold or wet, as this can hinder germination. Full sun is crucial for optimal blooming. These poppies thrive in bright, sunny conditions and may produce fewer flowers if grown in partial shade.

Carmine King California Poppy in the Flower Garden

These poppies make excellent border plants, providing a bright edge to garden beds. They are also ideal for mass planting in wildflower gardens or meadows, where their vibrant colors can create a stunning visual impact. Their moderate height makes them suitable as a mid-border or focal point rather than as background plants.

Landscape Use of Carmine King California Poppy

This variety stands out against the typical orange California poppies and is ideal for creating eye-catching borders, bedding plants, ground cover, and focal points in gardens. These poppies thrive in sunny, well-drained areas and can form a stunning carpet of color when planted en masse, providing continuous blooms throughout spring and early summer. While not primarily used as a companion plant in vegetable gardens, their ability to attract pollinators can aid in improving pollination nearby, and their vibrant color can aesthetically enhance vegetable patches.

About Carmine King California Poppy Garden Seeds

The flowers typically measure 2-3 inches across, providing a vibrant display of color in the landscape.

The California poppy is generally considered non-toxic to humans and animals, but is not recommended for culinary use.

The California poppy is native to areas extending from California to Oregon and into Baja California, Mexico.

Carmine King California Poppies are prolific self-seeders and highly drought-tolerant, allowing them to return year after year without replanting. This makes them a sustainable choice for low-maintenance and xeriscaped gardens.

Tips From Our Gardeners

"Ideal for naturalistic or cottage-style gardens, poppies blend well with other wildflowers, enhancing biodiversity and attracting pollinators."

- Lara Wadsworth, True Leaf Market Writer

Carmine King California Poppy Flower Seeds Per Package:

• 1 g - Wholesale - Approximately 635 Seeds
• 0.25 oz - Wholesale - Approximately 4,500 Seeds
• 1 oz - Bulk Seeds - Approximately 18,000 Seeds
• 4 oz - Bulk Seeds - Approximately 72,000 Seeds

Non-GMO Carmine King California Poppy seeds are available for Fast Free Shipping on qualifying orders.