Poppies are popular additions to gardens, valued for their striking flowers and, in some cases, for the seeds used in baking and cooking. Cultivating these plants starts with acquiring the right seeds, which can be confusing due to the many varieties available. Understanding where to source seeds that are both viable and appropriate for the gardener’s purpose is the first step toward successful cultivation. This guide explores the best avenues for obtaining high-quality poppy seeds for growing.
Understanding Different Poppy Varieties
The poppy genus (Papaver) includes several species commonly grown by gardeners, but they differ significantly in their characteristics and uses. The most recognized species is Papaver somniferum, often referred to as the Opium or Breadseed Poppy. This annual plant is grown for its ornamental flowers and, more commonly, for the small, edible seeds harvested from the dried seed pod.
Papaver rhoeas, known as the Corn Poppy or Flanders Poppy, is a distinct, purely ornamental annual. This variety produces delicate, single-petaled flowers, typically bright red. P. rhoeas is widely available and often included in wildflower or meadow seed mixes.
Another popular garden choice is Papaver orientale, the Oriental Poppy, which is a perennial plant. It is primarily valued for its large, showy flowers, which often feature deep, saturated colors.
Legal Considerations for Cultivation
Before acquiring poppy seeds, prospective growers must understand the specific regulations surrounding their cultivation, particularly concerning Papaver somniferum. While the possession and sale of the seeds themselves are generally permitted under federal law, cultivating the plant is subject to complex legal interpretations. The US Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) classifies the latex derived from the seed capsule of P. somniferum as a Schedule II controlled substance.
The complexity arises because the entire P. somniferum plant is the source of controlled substances. This makes its cultivation a potential point of legal scrutiny, even if the grower intends only to harvest edible seeds. The intent behind cultivation is usually the determining factor in legal cases.
Growing P. somniferum for ornamental or culinary purposes is often tolerated, provided there is no intent to manufacture illegal narcotics. In practice, local and state ordinances often impose stricter rules than federal law.
Some jurisdictions have specific bans on the cultivation of P. somniferum, regardless of the grower’s intent. Gardeners must check local regulations before planting this specific variety. The legal status is less ambiguous for Papaver rhoeas and Papaver orientale, as they do not contain the regulated alkaloids.
Sources for Purchasing Viable Seeds
Specialized seed catalogs and online retailers are generally the most reliable source for specific or rare varieties of poppy. These vendors often provide detailed strain information, including flower color, height, and anticipated harvest time.
Many reputable companies offer germination guarantees or replacement policies. Local garden centers and nurseries offer convenience but typically carry a more limited selection, often focusing on ornamental varieties. Purchasing locally allows the buyer to inspect the packaging for recent packing dates and proper storage conditions.
Heirloom and specialty seed banks are excellent resources for gardeners seeking unique genetics or specific historical strains. Their inventory may include rare colors or particularly large-flowered varieties not found in mass-market catalogs. These organizations often maintain smaller, carefully managed seed lots, resulting in higher genetic purity and better germination rates.
A common but less reliable source is purchasing culinary poppy seeds from grocery stores or bulk spice suppliers. While these seeds are inexpensive and readily available, they are typically processed and often stored under conditions that compromise their viability for planting. Growers should expect a significantly lower germination rate from these sources.
Ensuring Seed Quality and Viability
Growers should prioritize seeds with an explicitly stated germination rate. Reputable seed companies routinely test their inventory and print this information on the packaging, providing an assurance of quality.
Buying from established companies that specialize in seed stock ensures the seeds were harvested, cleaned, and stored under professional conditions. Poor storage, such as exposure to excessive heat or moisture, can rapidly degrade the genetic material and viability of poppy seeds.
Growers should pay attention to any seed treatments that may have been applied. Some seeds are treated with fungicides or insecticides, often indicated by a colored coating. Untreated or organic seeds are available for those who prefer to avoid chemical applications, and this distinction should be clearly marked.
Poppy seeds should be kept in a cool, dry, and dark environment, such as a sealed container in a refrigerator. Maintaining a low, consistent temperature prevents the seed from prematurely exhausting its energy reserves. This ensures the seed remains ready to sprout when introduced to the soil.