The Himalayan poppy is an extremely popular and rare plant, especially varieties from the blue coloured family.Here you will discover easy instructions on how to cultivate them beginning with the purchase of Himalayan poppy seeds.It is one of the rare plant species that grow and mature into a beautiful and natural deep blue coloured flower. Usually only found in their home locations located within China, they can grow to over five feet in height. When these particular poppies are grown in a large group together they are at their most beautiful and are perfect for enhancing displays or intertwined with some sort of a border such as a fence.For those that want to experience the beauty of this poppy they will need an abundance of patience as they may not bloom the first season in some locations. The foliage will become dormant during the winter months and may not bloom until the following year. If it is prevented from blooming the first time around it will most likely become a perennial plant. For the best results they should be grown in areas that have the most ideal temperatures ranging from -30 to +15 degrees Fahrenheit.
Step 1:Because they are not easily found in regular local retailers you may have to search online to buy some Himalayan poppy seeds. If you are specifically looking for the blue variety make sure to carefully read the description of the listing or ask the seller if you are not sure.
Step 2:Grab a small pot or container and choose a suitable location to plant the seeds whether it is indoors or outdoors. Be aware that they require partial shading and protection from strong winds that may dry them out easily. The soil needs to be richly fertilized and drained and, in colder temperature conditions, it needs to be more acidic. A few weeks prior to planting the seeds you will need to dig up the soil and take away any rocks and also take a sample to test the pH level. If there is an abundance of alkaline add some sulphur.
Step 3:If possible, continue the process of planting during the early spring months after you have had a few months of growing within the pot. Burrow a hole that is slightly bigger than the container that they are currently in. Carefully take it from the container and gently loosen the roots with your fingers. Slowly put the plant into your prepared hole in the soil and fill it in with the surround soil. Make sure to pack it down lightly to remove any air bubbles. Then sprinkle a little bit of water on top to settle the soil down. You do not want them to grow and choke each other out so spacing them about 20-25 inches apart is crucial.
Step 4:As the days progress, you will need to supply them with water frequently and regularly. However, try not to add too much as waterlogged plants will have to endure crown rot. On the other hand, do not let the soil dry out completely in-between the times that you water them either. Apply a small application of regular store bought fertilizer in the spring season. If you are having problems with mildew, which will happen in places that are humid, spray them with a fungicide at the very first sign of mildew to prevent it from spreading.
Step 5:If all is done correctly, in ideal conditions, you should be able to observe them blooming around the early summer months and continuing through to the early fall months. Unless you want the seeds to ripen, get rid of spent flower stems. As all the growth dies down you can now trim the poppies to the soil level. To remember where they are use a marker to point to the location of each of the Himalayan poppies.Cultivating Himalayan poppies can be a rewarding experience not to mention the sense of accomplishment you feel once you have mastered the delicate growth process. The end result is a beautiful Himalayan poppy to populate your outdoor garden or decorate your indoor living space. As we have shown, it is very easy to do and all starts with finding high quality Himalayan poppy seeds.