Poppy Iceland Mixed - 1 Packet (1900 Seeds) - Thompson & Morgan

Brighten up your spring garden with our Mixed Iceland Poppy seeds. Reliable and well-loved, these ...

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This guide is for home gardeners looking to add vibrant color to their spring displays. The Mixed Iceland Poppy seeds offer a reliable way to achieve eye-catching, saucer-shaped blooms on long stems, perfect for borders or bouquets. A key consideration is their need for specific germination conditions and light to thrive.

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Model Part Number24269
BrandThompson & Morgan

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FAQs

What is the best time to sow Iceland Poppy seeds?

You can sow Iceland Poppy seeds from January to February for spring flowering, or in August to September for plants that will bloom the following spring. A late summer sowing is best done in a cool greenhouse or conservatory.

How much sun do Iceland Poppies need?

Iceland Poppies thrive in full sun. They require at least six hours of direct sunlight per day to produce their best blooms.

Can I grow these poppies in containers?

Yes, Iceland Poppies can be grown in containers, provided the container has good drainage and is placed in a sunny location. Ensure the soil is well-drained.

What should I do if my seedlings look delicate?

Seedlings are delicate when young. Handle them gently during transplanting. Ensure they are hardened off gradually before planting them outside, and wait until all risk of frost has passed.

How far apart should I plant the poppies?

Space the young plants about 15cm (6 inches) apart when planting them out after the risk of frost has passed.

Are Iceland Poppies suitable for cut flowers?

Yes, Iceland Poppies have long stems and make excellent cut flowers. For the best results, cut stems in the early morning when they are still slightly dewy.

What is the typical height and spread of these poppies?

These poppies typically grow up to 35cm (approximately 14 inches) in height and spread up to 30cm (approximately 12 inches).

Troubleshooting

Seeds are not germinating

Ensure the correct temperature (18-20°C) is maintained and that light is not excluded. Check that the compost is consistently damp but not waterlogged.

Seedlings are weak or leggy

This can be due to insufficient light. Ensure seedlings are in a bright location and consider using grow lights if natural light is poor. Transplanting too early can also be a factor; wait until they are large enough to handle.

Plants fail to establish after planting out

Confirm that all risk of frost has passed before planting outdoors. Ensure the planting location has well-drained soil and receives full sun. Protect young plants from strong winds.

Few or no blooms

Poppies require full sun to produce abundant blooms. Check the soil is well-drained and that the plants are receiving adequate water. Overcrowding can also reduce flowering.

Pros and Cons

Pros

  • Adds significant color and visual appeal to spring gardens.
  • Excellent as cut flowers, bringing indoor beauty.
  • Reliable and well-established variety.
  • Suitable for both borders and mass planting.
  • Can be sown in both spring and late summer/early autumn.

Cons

  • Requires specific temperature and light conditions for germination.
  • Seedlings are delicate and require careful transplanting.
  • Must be planted out after all risk of frost.
  • Requires well-drained soil and full sun for best results.

Setup, Compatibility & Care

Sowing (January-February or August-September):

  1. Prepare a good, free-draining, damp seed compost.
  2. Sow seeds on the surface; do not cover them.
  3. Maintain a temperature of 18-20°C (64-68°F).
  4. Place in a propagator or seal in a polythene bag until germination.
  5. Do not exclude light, as it aids germination.

Germination: Takes 14-21 days.

Transplanting:

  1. Once seedlings are large enough to handle, transplant them into trays or 7.5cm (3in) pots.
  2. Grow on in cooler conditions for 10-15 days.
  3. Plant out after all risk of frost has passed, spacing them 15cm (6in) apart.

Alternative (Late Summer/Early Autumn Sowing):

  1. Sow in a cool greenhouse or conservatory.
  2. Grow on cool in full light.
  3. Water sparingly.
  4. Plant out the following spring.

Planting Conditions:

  • Position: Full sun.
  • Soil: Light, well-drained soil.

Care: Water regularly, especially during dry spells, but ensure the soil does not become waterlogged. Deadhead spent blooms to encourage further flowering.