Poppy Seeds 'Summer Sorbets' - Unwins - 500 Seeds
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This guide is for gardeners looking to add vibrant color and unique textures to their borders and culinary creations. The Unwins Poppy 'Summer Sorbets' seeds offer a significant improvement over older double poppy varieties, boasting a beautiful range of colors and providing excellent height for garden beds. A potential caveat is that poppies require specific conditions to germinate successfully.
All features
| Model Part Number | 30210178 |
|---|---|
| Brand | Unwins |
Extended Product Information
FAQs
When is the best time to sow Poppy 'Summer Sorbets' seeds?
You can sow seeds directly outdoors from early spring (March-May) or in autumn (September-October). Autumn sowing often leads to earlier blooms the following year.
Do I need to start these seeds indoors?
No, these are best sown directly into the ground where they are to grow. They do not transplant well.
How deep should I plant the seeds?
Poppy seeds require light to germinate, so they should be sown on the surface of the soil and very lightly raked in, or just pressed into the surface.
Can I eat the flowers?
Yes, the flowers of the Poppy 'Summer Sorbets' variety are edible and can be used in salads or baking. Ensure they are from a reputable seed source and have not been treated with pesticides.
How tall do these poppies grow?
Mature plants typically reach a height of 60-90 cm (2-3 ft).
Can I use the seed heads for dried arrangements?
Yes, the seed heads can be cut when mature and dried for use in everlasting floral arrangements.
How far apart should I space the plants?
After germination, thin the seedlings to stand approximately 15-20 cm (6-8 inches) apart.
Troubleshooting
Seeds not germinating
Ensure seeds received adequate light, soil temperature was within the optimal range (15-20°C), and soil was kept consistently moist without waterlogging. Avoid burying seeds too deeply.
Plants are weak and spindly
Seedlings may not have been thinned adequately, leading to competition for resources. Ensure plants are spaced at least 15-20 cm apart.
Flowers are not opening fully
Check for adequate sunlight exposure. Insufficient light can inhibit blooming. Ensure plants are not stressed by lack of water or nutrients.
Plants falling over
In windy areas, taller plants may require staking. Consider planting in a more sheltered location or providing support.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Produces a wide spectrum of beautiful colors.
- Adds significant height and visual interest to garden beds.
- Flowers are edible and can be used in culinary applications.
- Seed heads are suitable for dried arrangements.
- An improvement on older double poppy varieties.
Cons
- Requires direct sowing outdoors in early spring or autumn.
- Germination can be erratic if conditions are not met (e.g., soil temperature, light).
- As annuals, they need to be re-sown each year.
- Can self-seed readily, potentially spreading to unwanted areas.
- Poppy plants may require staking in exposed or windy locations.
Setup, Compatibility & Care
Sowing: Sow seeds directly outdoors from early spring (March-May) after the risk of frost has passed, or in autumn (September-October) for earlier blooms the following year. Choose a sunny position with well-drained soil. Prepare the soil by loosening it and removing weeds. Scatter the seeds thinly and lightly rake them into the soil surface, ensuring they are not buried too deeply as they need light to germinate. Water gently.
Care: Once seedlings appear, thin them to approximately 15-20 cm (6-8 inches) apart to allow for healthy growth. Water regularly during dry periods, especially when the plants are young and establishing. Deadheading spent flowers will encourage more blooms. For dried arrangements, cut the stems when the seed pods are mature and plump but before they split open.
Compatibility: These poppies are hardy annuals and generally compatible with most garden flowers. They pair well with lower-growing plants that can appreciate the height provided by the poppies, such as petunias, marigolds, or shorter varieties of cosmos.