California poppy 'Red chief'

1300 seeds

How to Seed California Poppy ‘Red Chief’ (Eschscholzia californica)

1. Sowing Time:
   Sow directly outdoors from March to May or in autumn (September–October) for early blooms next spring. California poppies do not transplant well, so direct sowing is best.

2. Sowing Depth:
   Sow seeds 0.5–1 cm deep in finely raked, well-drained soil. Lightly cover and firm gently.

3. Soil:
   Prefers poor to moderately fertile, sandy, well-drained soil. Avoid rich soil and over-fertilizing — too much fertility reduces flowering.

4. Light & Temperature:
   Choose a sunny, open location. Ideal temperature for germination is 15–20 °C (59–68 °F).

5. Germination Time:
   Seeds usually germinate in 10–15 days under good conditions.

6. Thinning:
   When seedlings are about 5 cm tall, thin them to 15–20 cm apart to allow healthy growth and good air circulation.

7. Growing Tips:

   • Water lightly until established, then only during dry periods.

   • Do not overwater — California poppies thrive in dry conditions.

   • Remove faded flowers to prolong blooming.

   • The ‘Red Chief’ variety produces brilliant scarlet-red, silky flowers that bloom continuously through summer.