Hybrid Blue Poppy Seeds from Alchemy Works - Seeds for Magick Herbs and Pagan Gardens

Meconopsis x sheldonii Hybrid Blue Poppy (Meconopsis x sheldonii) Info
This Moon plant is a hybrid of Meconopsis grandis and Meconopsis betonicifolia. It gets 2.5 feet tall and like the others, enjoys growing in partial shade, in the woods, in rocky areas, and in the mountains. However, as a hybrid it is much more vigorous than either of its parents. Because many of these plants tend to produce no seed, this is a very rare variety; it usually has to be produced vegetatively. If you live in a windy area, grow it in a peony cage so it doesn't flop over. Mulch with bark or composted pine needles (this will help increase soil acidity). Like the other Meconopsis, this plant needs a cool, rainy summer, as in the Pacific Northwest, coastal California, the mountains (will grow in NC mountains, for instance), Canada, or the UK. They can survive harsh winters if they have a good snow covering, but if the summer is hot, they will only live one year. An alkaline soil will result in more lavender flowers. Top

How to grow Hybrid Blue Poppy: Sow in a paper towel that has been wet and wrung out. Fold seeds inside the towel and put in a baggie. Store in fridge for 4 weeks. Then gently press the seed into the surface of wet seed-growing medium--this seed requires light for germination (but no sun!). Growing temperatures should be no more than 65F/18C. Bottom water or gently mist; don't let it dry out. Start 2-3 months before your last frost date to take advantage of the coolest part of your year or sow outside in fall. This plant hates heat and is perennial only in climates with cool summers. As with any poppy, watch for damping off; scant sowing, good ventilation, or a sterile soil mix like vermiculite and peat help prevent that. Transplant to rich, moist soil (dig in plenty of Black Cow and some peat for acidity) and dappled shade or morning sun and afternoon shade). The flower's coloring is connected with the soil pH--a more acid (peaty) soil means more blue coloration. Mulch well to keep soil moist. Watch out for slugs. Keep well fertilized and deadhead to promote more flowers. The flowers will develop into seed-filled pods. Divide the plants every third year. General growing info Top