Saturday, January 24, 2009

Himalayan Blue Poppy


(Meconopsis betonicifolia) Unique, stunning blue flowers make this one of the most sought-after plants in the gardening world. Best suited for cooler climates, but success can be achieved almost anywhere with a little practice and patience. Spectacular in areas where it has naturalized such as Alaska. Acts as a biennial or short-lived perennial, 30–35" tall.
Planting Instructions: Sow in early spring in good, free draining seed compost, just beneath the surface of the soil. Place in cold-frame or sheltered area. keep moist. Light frost is beneficial. Leave cool for about 5 weeks, then bring into a warmer area, around 60-70 degrees. Plant out into moist loam in sheltered semi-shaded area.
Seed Saving Instructions: when the blooms fade, a round seedpod is formed, turning from green to brown. Once the seedpod turns brown, cut off and allow to completely dry before cracking open and removing the hundreds of small sand-like seeds.

2 comments:

Rex Krajewski said...

Seeds sowed indoors on 7 February 2009.

Rex Krajewski said...

Germinated 24 February 2009.