Eschscholzia californica

How to Grow Californian Poppy

If you like poppies but want a low care version, you can't go past the Californian Poppy. This annual provides vivid colour to your spring-summer garden with their bright oranges, reds, whites and yellows that just glow in the sun. Great for the easy care garden, cottage gardens or in pots for that burst of colour.

Full sun

Regular watering

Well drained soil

Suitable for all climatic zones

How to grow californian poppies in a garden

Step 1

Choose a spot in the garden that receives full sun.

Step 2

Prepare the planting area well by digging in Yates Dynamic Lifter Soil Improver & Plant Fertiliser.

Step 3

Sow seeds directly where they are to grow by scattering them thinly on top of the soil and lightly rake the seeds into the surface of the soil. Firm down and water with a fine mist spray.

Step 4

Water gently and keep moist through germination period.

Step 5

Mulch with an organic mulch, such as bark chips, sugar cane or pea straw.

Step 6

Feed every 1 to 2 weeks with Yates Thrive Roses and Flowers Liquid Plant Food.

How to grow californian poppies in a pot

Step 1

Choose a pot at least 200mm wide and deep. Position in full sun and is sheltered from wind.

Step 2

Fill the chosen pots with quality potting mix, such as Yates Potting Mix with Dynamic Lifter.

Step 3

Plant directly into the pot by scattering the seeds thinly on top of the soil, then barely cover with Yates Seed Raising Mix. Firm down and water with a fine mist spray.

Step 4

Water gently and keep moist through germination period.

Step 5

Feed every 1 to 2 weeks with Yates Thrive Roses and Flowers Liquid Plant Food.

Growing tips

Californian poppies dislike any root disturbances. Select the planting area carefully as they won't transplant well after germination.
These poppies can tolerate the sandy soils and don't like getting wet feet, so avoid over-moist conditions.
Remove spent flowers to encourage further blooms and to prevent self seeding.