Eschscholzia californica (California Poppy)

Seed Treatment: • Soak seeds in warm water for 12 hours before sowing – Scarify (lightly nick) the seed coat with sandpaper for faster water absorption When to Sow: • Outdoors (recommended): – Direct sow in early spring (as soon as soil is workable) or fall in mild climates for earlier blooms • Indoors: – Not ideal, as California poppies dislike transplanting due to their taproot Sowing Instructions: • Direct sow on the soil surface or cover very lightly with a fine layer of soil (no deeper than 1/8 inch / 3 mm) • Seeds need light to germinate • Keep soil lightly moist until germination • Ideal soil temperature: 55–65°F (13–18°C) • Germinates in 7–14 days Light Requirements: • Requires full sun • Thrives in warm, sunny locations Soil Requirements: • Prefers poor to moderately fertile, well-draining soil • Tolerates sandy, rocky, or dry soil • pH range: 6.0–7.5 Watering: • Water sparingly — California poppies are drought-tolerant • Too much water can cause root rot or spindly growth Spacing: • Thin or sow seeds 6–10 inches (15–25 cm) apart for full, bushy plants Growing Tips: • Produces vibrant flowers • Blooms from late spring to early fall • Self-seeds readily and returns annually in ideal conditions • Ideal for wildflower meadows, borders, slopes, and containers • Hardy in USDA Zones 6–10 (grown as annual elsewhere)