How to grow
Oriental poppies are very easy to grow and almost thrive on neglect. Plant in sun/light shade, in well-drained soil, and just leave them to it.
After flowering, the foliage of this perennial becomes yellow and untidy as it dies, so cut it back a couple of weeks after flowering ends, and include vigorous, late plants that will grow to occupy the gap this inevitably creates. When cutting back the foliage, consider leaving the seedheads on the plant to give valuable structure for the rest of the year.
Remember that poppies resent disturbance, so avoid moving or splitting your plant.
Suppliers: Papaver are widely available in most garden centres and nurseries. Water Meadow Nursery in Hampshire holds the national collection and offers a mail-order service (01962 771895).
Alternative suppliers include Crocus (0870 7871414) and Perry Hill Nurseries (01892 770377).
