Icelandic Poppy
The Icelandic Poppy, also known as Papaver nudicaule, is a species of perennial flowering plant native to the mountain meadows of Europe, Siberia and North America. It is a showy addition to both traditional and modern gardens, featuring cup-shaped, four-petaled flowers that come in an array of colors including white, yellow, orange, purple and pink. Reaching an average height of 12-16 inches, these flowers have multiple short-stemmed heads of blooms and sprawling branches with thin, pencil-like foliage. Icelandic Poppies are delightfully easy to grow and require no special care.
The Icelandic Poppy is fairly drought-tolerant and requires only moderate amounts of water. They can take a light watering 1-2 times a week, or as needed if the soil feels dry. Be sure not to overwater as this can cause root rot or other diseases.
This plant prefers full sun or partial shade for its best blooms. They thrive in cooler temperatures and blooms will fade if there is too much heat. When grown indoors, provide a south- or east-facing window to enjoy the most blooms.
This plant grows best in cooler temperatures of 65-75°F (18-24°C). Protect Icelandic Poppies from extreme temperatures on either end of the spectrum and keep away from cold drafts. If temperatures drop too low, their blooms may suffer.
Icelandic Poppies require modest amounts of humidity and the best levels are usually found indoors. To boost humidity levels, keep a cool-mist humidifier nearby, or try grouping your plants together to create a humid environment.
The Icelandic Poppy prefers loose, well-draining soil and benefits from the addition of compost. A lean soil mix with lots of organic matter helps with the drainage and tends to hold nutrients better. A general potting mix or a combination of sand and peat moss works well.
Icelandic Poppies rarely need to be fertilized and organic methods are best. If desired, lightly fertilize your plants with a balanced liquid fertilizer in early spring and again mid-summer to help encourage healthy growth and blooms. Any fertilizers should be used sparingly as too much can burn the delicate roots.
Icelandic Poppies, while fairly resistent to most pests, may occasionally suffer from aphids, spider mites or caterpillars. Keep an eye out for signs of infestations such as discoloration or patches of webbing. To rid your plant of aphids, try spraying it down with a strong stream of water. For other pests such as caterpillars, handpicking them off the plant is usually the best solution and most environmentally friendly.
Icelandic Poppies do not require frequent repotting and can be kept in the same pot for several years. However, repotting can be beneficial if the plant is beginning to look overcrowded or is showing signs of distress. Choose a pot no more than two inches larger than the current one and replenish the soil with fresh potting mix.
Icelandic Poppies are best left to flower naturally. It is not necessary to prune them or do any extra grooming., but pinching off spent blooms helps to encourage more flower production.
Mulching the surface of the soil around the Icelandic Poppy provides several benefids. It helps the plant retain moisture and regulate soil temperature, controls weeds and adds to the appearance of the flower bed. Organic mulches such as wood chips, compost, straw or shredded leaves work best.
Icelandic Poppies are best propagated by sowing their seeds directly in the garden in summer or fall. Depending on the variety, seeds may need to be stratified at a cold temperature for a few weeks before planting. Seeds should be planted an inch deep into a heated and well-drained soil. Those grown indoors should be transplanted outdoors after a few weeks.
These flowers are self-supporting, usually not requiring any type of support. However, if the stem seems weak or unable to hold up the full weight of the bloom, you may need to install a light stake to provide stability.
Icelandic Poppies do benefit from a slight rest period to help regrow and revitalize. This is usually in late autumn when the temperatures begin to drop and the plants have stopped flowering. Provide a slightly cooler temperature of around 45°F (7°C) during this time.
The Icelandic Poppy is not toxic to pets.
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