Peony  Poppy 'White Cloud '
Papaver paeoniflorum
 
Poppies are some of the most beautiful flowers to grow from seed with gorgeous papery blooms. White Cloud is tall with large ruffled double creamy white flowers followed by lovely fat seed heads. Flowers are produced from late spring (end of May) to late summer (August).
 
If you are creating a cottage garden or a white garden this poppy will give you fast results. Poppies are brilliant planted in drifts and makes a lovely cut flower too. The seedheads can also be used in flower arrangements.
 
 
Details:
Season: Annual
Height: 32-48”
Site: Full sun
Average Germ Time: 14 - 21 days
Days to maturity: 80-90 days
Seed depth:Surface, press into the soil, do not cover
Plant spacing: 12”
Approx seeds per packet: 100
 
How to Grow: 
Sow direct in spring. Poppies dislike root disturbance so it's best to sow where you want them to flower. Seeds are tiny so do not cover them because they need light to germinate. Take care when watering to prevent the seeds being washed away. Alternatively sow in September or October for slightly earlier flowers next year.
Thin seedlings to allow sufficient space  for the young plants to grow and develop.
White Cloud will grow in most garden situations ranging from full sun to dappled shade. They prefer moist but well drained soil. Protect from slugs and snails because they love Poppies.
 
Harvest:
Flowers produced in 10 -12 weeks from a spring sowing. Grow plenty, cut often to encourage flower production and sow in succession for lots of blooms.
Pick in the cool of the early morning or evening when the buds are just starting to break open.
Sear stem ends in boiling water for 20 seconds to prolong vase life and place immediately in fresh clean water. Seed heads can also be used in arrangements either freshly cut or dried.
 
Vase life:
3-4 Days