Poppy Spanish Flag Seeds (Ladybird Poppy)

Approx 30-40 seeds in the pack

Poppy Spanish Flag (Papaver commutatum)

Poppy Spanish Flag, also known as Ladybird Poppy, is a stunning annual flowering plant known for its vibrant red petals adorned with bold black spots, resembling a ladybird. This eye-catching poppy can add a burst of color to any garden with its striking and unique appearance. The plant grows to about 12-18 inches tall, making it an excellent choice for borders, containers, or as part of a wildflower garden.

Growing Instructions for Poppy Spanish Flag

Sowing Season in Pakistan:

Optimal Time: Late autumn to early winter (October to December).

Soil Preparation:

Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam soil.

Soil pH: Neutral to slightly alkaline (pH 6.5-7.5).

Preparation: Loosen the soil to a depth of about 12-15 inches, removing any weeds and stones. Mix in organic compost to enrich the soil.

Sowing:

1. Direct Sowing: Poppy Spanish Flag seeds can be sown directly in the garden.

2. Spacing: Sow seeds thinly, approximately 6-8 inches apart.

3. Depth: Scatter the seeds on the soil surface and press them lightly into the soil. Do not cover the seeds, as they need light to germinate.

4. Watering: Water gently to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.

Watering:

Initial Stage: Keep the soil consistently moist during germination and early growth.

After Establishment: Water moderately. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot.

Light Requirements:

Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade. For best results, provide at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.

Transplanting:

Not Necessary: Poppies do not transplant well due to their long taproots. Direct sowing is recommended.

Care:

Thinning: Once the seedlings are about 1-2 inches tall, thin them to maintain a spacing of 6-8 inches between plants.

Weeding: Keep the area weed-free to reduce competition for nutrients and water.

Mulching: Apply a light layer of mulch to help retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.

Minimal Feeding: Poppies generally do not require much fertilization. If the soil is poor, a light application of a balanced, slow-release fertilizer can be applied.

Flowering and Seed Saving:

Bloom Time: Poppy Spanish Flag typically blooms in late spring to early summer.

Deadheading: Remove spent flowers to encourage continued blooming.

Seed Saving: Allow some flowers to form seed pods. Once the pods have dried and turned brown, collect the seeds for next season. Store them in a cool, dry place.

By following these instructions, you can enjoy a vibrant display of Poppy Spanish Flag in your garden, adding a splash of color and a touch of elegance to your outdoor space.