[MJPassion]

Can anybody give me an idea about how long it takes for poppy seeds to mature?

I would like to collect seeds previous to the crowns opening & losing them.

I had a small sample of some Black Carnation Poppys & 2 or 3 plants came up. They flowered all summer long, blossom after blossom & the birds wouldn't leave them alone. I had to set up a cage to protect the pods just so I could replant next year.

[MJPassion]

I also grew some Persian White poppies.
They blommed in the spring but the blossoms only lasted a day or so. I let their pods dry on the stems & have back ups for next spring.

Finally, I attempted some Hens & Chicks, only to see one flower. The contents of its pod got dumped in the wilderness. I have a huge pack of these seeds.

[WelderDan]

Poppies mature the opposite of cannabis. They need longer days/shorter nights to mature. Plant in late fall/early winter to get big, mature pods in the summer.

[Betterhaff]

I’ve always let the heads dry somewhat on the plant but harvested before the little windows open at the top. Color can be a cue too, changing from green to tan/brown but you need to keep an eye on them to make sure the windows don’t open. Then let the heads dry further in a bowl or paper bag. I’ve grown Giants, Persian (China) Whites, and Hens & Chicks.

If you have numerous heads you could let them go until you see the first one open up and then harvest all and dry.

[new3]

fertelize them well or the heads wont be as big as you think

[blastfrompast]

just watch how many you grow.... I used to grow a few dozen a year for tea.... Just watch out as it is addictive medicine.

[White Rabbit]

Wait for the pods to turn brown.... Almost dry. You will hear the seeds when you give it gentle shake..

wr

[draconis]

You can tell when the colour starts to change to tan. Give them a shake and if you can hear a rattle sound then they should be ready. I grow them near the great Lakes and plant the seeds in the fall. Some ver can be picky with the fertilizer so go easy till you know how they react.

[MJPassion]

Thanks for all the replies.
I got a pretty good pull from my Black Carnations, even after some loss due to open windows. It's about time to get some started in the cold room just to see what happens. I'll be growing 4 strains this year...
White (either peshawar or persian, I can't remember exactly)
Black Carnation (blooms all summer untul hard freeze in the fall)
Hen & Chicks (didn't like the earth box)
Blue Breadseed

Originally Posted by blastfrompast

just watch how many you grow.... I used to grow a few dozen a year for tea.... Just watch out as it is addictive medicine.

It's not just addictive it's considered an essential plant for medical purposes by the WHO.

I wonder what they have to say about cannabis? Lol

Far as consumption goes...
I was told I had an allergic reaction to morphine while in the OR getting my hand reconstructed. I don't think I'll have any problems with these beautiful flowers. However, I know a few folks that won't get to enjoy their beauty because they know what they can do. Thanks for your concern.

[MJPassion]

HELLO FINE PEOPLE...

Does anybody know how far apart the different varietys need to be to prevent cross pollenation.

My land owner loves poppies & I would like to plant a couple varieties so they can be seen from the porch.