How to Grow Papaver

Papaver are annuals, biennials or herbaceous perennial plants, better known as the ‘Poppy’. Large blousy blooms where petals resemble delicate crepe paper are held high on strong stems above hairy foliage throughout late spring and summer. Fresh foliage can often re-appear during the autumn. Papaver are best suited to flower beds and borders within courtyard, cottage and informal garden settings. You should expect to see Papaver grow to an approximate height of 60-80cm (24-32”) and a spread of 45-60cm (18-24”).

Papaver are best planted in well-drained soil of chalk, clay, sand and loam within a neutral, acidic or alkaline PH balance. Amend the planting area with compost and mix in well, inserting plants as deep and twice as wide as the root ball. Water thoroughly and deeply to settle the soil in place. Papaver are best positioned in an area of full sun where they will thrive to optimum effect.

Apply a balanced liquid fertiliser when new foliage is yellowing. Generally, Papaver do not require supplemental fertilisation if compost is added at the time of planting. Deadhead plants as they begin to fade if you do not wish for your plants to set seed. Water Papaver when the soil becomes dry and throughout periods of drought.

It is possible to propagate Papaver by division during the spring or alternatively by root cuttings in late autumn or early winter.