Landscape Design California
The vivid orange flowers of the California poppy, escholzia californica, found on slopes and fields throughout California and many Western states, create a dazzling landscape during the spring months. Particularly in years where abundant rainfall allows the plants to propagate and bloom, this wildflower native to California makes a stunning backdrop of color. The plant adapts easily to home gardens and adds a brilliant dash of color either in a small planting bed or to fill in a larger area.
Native Growing Conditions for the California Poppy
Sunshine is a key element for this species and the blooming cycle varies depending on the region. In warmer climates such as Arizona, Nevada and New Mexico, the flower will be prevalent in early spring and typically fade after the sun turns hot from May forward. In Southern California the native plants may thrive until June, particularly near the coast. Northern California and Oregon wildflower viewers continue to enjoy the poppies throughout the summer and often into early September.
Winter rains bring the best chance for an abundant crop of color although just a small amount of water often triggers these hardy native plants to bloom. Soil conditions in the wild where California poppies grow are often poor, sandy or rocky but well drained. Poppies seem to sprout almost anywhere along roadsides, between rocks and in areas affected from wildfires. When left to reseed and grow on a hillside, the entire region fills with bright orange and yellow color in the peak spring months.
Growing the California Poppy in a Home Garden
In warmer climates the perennial California poppy will continue to pop up every year and normally propagates after the first rainfall and a short period of warm days. The plants are drought tolerant but do require moderate water for continued blooming particularly in arid climates. Pinching off faded flowers and foliage will often stimulate new growth. Container plantings are often too confined and may become leggy with limited blooms. The plants enjoy some room to spread but individual plants remain compact reaching heights of 12 to 18 inches. Warmer climates allow for plantings in the fall as well as spring months.
In cooler regions or areas that experience significant frost and snowfall the California poppy is planted as an annual. The small black seeds may be sown by sprinkling a few handfuls on a slope or in a controlled planting bed. The soil should be moist and but not soggy, plants preferred a well drained area. In extreme cold regions, the seeds may be planted after the snow has melted. The poppies are quick to grow and seedlings could sprout and need thinning within a two week period. Overwatering is the biggest concern after the plants are stable. Use only a light sprinkling of water and allow the soil to dry somewhat before the next watering period.
