Photo: Franz Eugen Köhler, Köhler's Medizinal-Pflanzen, Public domain · source
Pruning guide · Herbaceous plant
Common poppy: when and how to prune
Papaver rhoeas
Common poppy is best pruned in August.
| Pruning months | August |
|---|---|
| Flowering | May–August |
| Native to Belgium | Yes |
Common poppy: when to prune it?
In August, when the capsules are ripe and dry, clear the plants.
What else to prune in those months? August
Common poppy: how to prune it?
- Cut off spent flowers to prolong flowering.
- At the end of summer let some capsules ripen until they are grey-brown and the pores under the lid are open.
- Shake the capsules over the spot where you want poppies next year, then pull up the plants.
- Mow a cornfield-flower strip after seed set, in August–September, then lightly cultivate the soil.
How much to cut, and how often?
- One pruning period a year: August.
What does it mean for wildlife?
- As a native plant, it feeds more insects than a non-native species.
Caution: Cut poppies wilt quickly. Pick them in bud and dip the cut end in hot water for a few seconds: they will last longer.
Nearby: related pruning guides
Plant profile: Common poppy · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.