Tufted Poppy 'Sundew' yellow

1000 seeds

How to Seed Tufted Poppy ‘Sundew’ Yellow (Eschscholzia caespitosa)

1. Best Time to Sow (Gulf Region):

   • Outdoors: From October to February, when daytime temperatures range between 15–25°C (59–77°F).

   • Indoors or shaded nursery: From December to January for transplanting before spring.

   • Avoid sowing in hot months (April–September), as high heat stops germination and damages seedlings.

2. Sowing Depth:
   Sow seeds directly where they are to bloom, about 0.5 cm deep in moist, fine soil.
   Poppies dislike transplanting, so direct sowing is recommended.

3. Soil:
   Prefers light, sandy, well-drained soil.
   Ideal Gulf mix: 50% sandy garden soil + 30% peat moss or coco peat + 20% compost.
   Avoid heavy or clay soil — poppies thrive in dry, well-aerated soil.

4. Light & Temperature:

   • Germination temperature: 15–20°C (59–68°F).

   • Place in full sun — Tufted Poppy loves bright light.

   • In the Gulf, provide protection from harsh midday sun for young seedlings.

5. Germination Time:
   Seeds germinate in 10–20 days in mild, moist conditions.

6. Transplanting:

   • Since Tufted Poppies develop delicate taproots, it’s best not to transplant.

   • If started in trays, transplant very gently while small (less than 5 cm tall).

7. Growing Tips for Gulf Climate:

   • Sunlight: Choose a sunny to partially shaded spot; morning sun with light afternoon shade works best.

   • Watering: Water lightly and infrequently — allow soil to dry slightly between waterings. The plant is drought-tolerant once established.

   • Feeding: Add a light balanced fertilizer every 3–4 weeks during active growth.

   • Maintenance: Deadhead faded flowers to prolong blooming.

   • The ‘Sundew’ Yellow variety produces brilliant golden-yellow blooms on compact mounds of fern-like foliage, ideal for borders, rock gardens, and containers.

   • Blooms from late winter to early summer in the Gulf region.