Poppies have held a special place in my heart since childhood. I remember the thrill of spotting a California poppy growing defiantly in a crack of cement, only to learn it was off-limits to pick. Now, as a flower farmer in Nevada, I laugh at the irony of cherishing such a “weed” and watching my children pick them with glee.
Among the many types of poppies, Iceland poppies (Papaver nudicaule) stand out as a flower farmer’s dream. Their delicate, tissue-like petals and vibrant ice cream parlor colors bring charm to the garden and bouquets alike. Unlike most poppies, Iceland poppies boast an impressive vase life, making them a perfect choice for cut flower growers.
In this guide, Ill share everything you need to know to grow, harvest, and design with these enchanting blooms. Whether youre a backyard gardener or a small-scale flower farmer, Iceland poppies can bring delight to your garden, bouquets, and even pollinators.
Note: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting our farm!
Iceland poppies, with their delicate, tissue-paper petals, are one of the most beautiful flowers you can grow in your garden. Though often grown as an annual, they are actually a hardy perennial that thrives in cool climates. With proper care, these poppies will reward you with cheerful blooms from late spring through early summer.
In this comprehensive guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to successfully grow Iceland poppies, from choosing the right variety to sowing and transplanting to troubleshooting common issues. Whether you’re new to gardening or a seasoned pro, cultivating these gorgeous blooms is a very rewarding endeavor
Selecting the Best Iceland Poppy Variety
Iceland poppies come in a stunning range of colors including bright red pink, orange, yellow, and white. Popular varieties like ‘Champagne Bubbles’ and ‘Gartford Giants’ offer a lively mix of hues in one packet.
For growing cut flowers, I recommend the large-flowered ‘Colibri’ series. These were bred specifically for the floral industry and have long, strong stems perfect for arrangements. Their big, ruffled blooms up to 4 inches across look incredible in a vase.
Dwarf varieties like ‘Wonderland Mix’ are ideal for containers and rock gardens. At just 10-12 inches tall, these compact plants are covered in a profusion of cheerful little flowers.
No matter which type you choose, look for “primed” seeds, which have undergone a special pre-treatment to enhance germination rates. This gives you the best chance at success when starting Iceland poppies from seed.
When and How to Plant Iceland Poppy Seeds
Spring or Fall Planting
You can sow Iceland poppy seeds directly in the garden in early spring as soon as the soil can be worked. Or, for best results, plant them in the fall so they can get established before winter arrives.
Well-Drained, Nutrient-Rich Soil
Poppies need soil that drains well but also holds some moisture. Amend planting areas with compost or other organic matter to enrich the soil with nutrients.
Direct Sowing Outdoors
Sow seeds right on top of the soil and lightly cover with 1⁄4 inch of fine soil or seed starter mix. Keep the area moist until seedlings emerge in 1-2 weeks.
Starting Indoors
You can also start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before your last frost date. Use sterile seed starting mix and keep it lightly moist. Move outdoors after seedlings form 2-4 true leaves.
12-18°C for Germination
Maintain a soil temperature of 55-65°F for best results. You can use a heat mat or grow lights to create ideal conditions.
Transplant with Care
Poppies have delicate root systems and don’t transplant well. Consider sowing seeds in biodegradable pots that can be planted right in the ground without disturbing the roots.
Caring for Iceland Poppies Throughout the Season
Location and Light
Grow Iceland poppies in full sun to partial shade. At least 6 hours of direct sunlight is ideal. Provide afternoon shade in hot climates.
Watering Needs
Keep soil moist but not saturated. Allow it to dry slightly between waterings. Avoid overhead watering that can damage the flowers.
Fertilizer for Growth
Iceland poppies thrive with regular feeding. Use a balanced fertilizer every 2-3 weeks during the growing season.
Pruning for Shape
Remove spent flowers and any damaged leaves or stems to keep plants looking their best. This encourages new blooms too.
ideal Temperatures
These cool weather lovers can tolerate cold and light frosts. But they decline rapidly in heat above 70°F, especially if it’s humid.
Good Air Circulation
Space plants at least 6 inches apart for airflow that prevents fungal disease issues like botrytis blight.
Keep an Eye Out for Pests
Watch for aphids, slugs, snails, and other bugs. Take action early before they damage plants. Neem oil works great.
Encouraging Beautiful Blooms from Your Iceland Poppies
Bloom time
In most climates, Iceland poppies begin flowering in late spring and continue through early summer.
Deadheading for More Flowers
Pinch off spent blooms to encourage continuous new flowers. Don’t let seed pods form, or the plant will stop blooming.
Pick Early in the Day
Harvest poppy stems when flower buds first crack open in the morning for maximum vase life.
Cut Flowers Last 5-7 Days
Place freshly-cut stems immediately in clean water. Recut under water to prevent oozing sap. Change water every 2 days.
Pollinator Magnet
The bright, nectar-rich blooms attract bees, butterflies, hummingbirds, and other beneficial pollinators to your garden.
Lovely in Arrangements
Show off the papery single petals in simple floral designs. Iceland poppies pair beautifully with lace flower, stocks, ferns, and grasses.
Avoiding Common Pitfalls When Growing Iceland Poppies
Even experienced gardeners run into problems sometimes when cultivating finicky plants like Iceland poppies. Here are some common issues and how to prevent them:
Germination Failure
This is often due to old seeds, improper planting depth, poor drainage, or incorrect temperatures. Always use fresh primed seeds from a reputable source.
Damping Off Disease
Seedlings collapse and rot from fungal infection. Avoid overwatering, provide good airflow, and use sterile seed starting mix.
Leggy, Weak Growth
Insufficient light causes plants to stretch and flop over. Give them full sun, use a grow light, or add a fan to strengthen stems.
Wilting Plants
Underwatering or roots damaged during transplanting are common culprits. Maintain even moisture and handle new plants very gently.
No Blooms
Blooming declines in heat/humidity. Ensure correct lighting and growing conditions. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage reblooming.
Mildew or Blight
Water carefully to keep foliage dry, space plants for airflow, and apply organic antifungal options at first signs.
Growing Gorgeous Iceland Poppies Is Worth the Effort
With their delicate, colorful blooms in spring, Iceland poppies are one of my favorite flowers for brightening up any garden. Pay close attention to their preferences for cool weather, rich soil, and ample sunlight. A bit of extra care goes a long way when it comes to getting these beauties to thrive. The joy they bring is well worth it!
Seed Starting Tips:
- Iceland poppy seeds are tiny and typically have about a 70% germination rate. Their small size makes it easy to sow too many into a single cell, so aim for precision to avoid overcrowding.
- For precision, use a bamboo skewer or sharp pencil to place 1–2 seeds per cell.
- Start seeds in 128-cell trays and transplant to 72-cell trays after 3–4 weeks. Soil blocking with 3/4-inch blocks is another great option.
I use Bootstrap Farmer’s 128-cell and 72-cell trays because they’re durable, long-lasting, and perfect for poppies and other delicate seedlings.
- Don’t bury the seeds: Iceland poppies need light to germinate. Mist seeds into place and lightly dust with vermiculite.
- Use a heating mat: A mat set to 70°F speeds up germination to just a few days.
- Cold tolerance: These poppies thrive in cool temperatures, making late fall or early winter sowing ideal.
To maximize your Iceland poppy harvest, consider succession planting. Start with a fall sowing, then follow up with two additional plantings spaced four weeks apart during winter. This staggered approach ensures a steady supply of blooms from late spring into early summer, even as temperatures begin to rise.
Want to learn more about succession planting? Explore our Advanced Succession Planting Guide to map out your planting schedule and get the most out of your garden all season long!
Want to master seed starting? Check out our Seed Starting Guide for expert tips and tricks to get your flowers off to a strong start. Whether you’re new to gardening or an experienced grower, this guide is packed with actionable advice to make your seed starting a success!
Confident in Seed Starting but not sure when to start Iceland Poppies? Read our guide When to Plant: Frost Dates, Soil Temps, and Timing.
Iceland poppies starting strong—this plant is ready to deliver stunning blooms.
Once established, Iceland poppies are remarkably fuss-free. Here’s how to set them up for success in the garden:
- Space plants 6–9 inches apart. For tighter rows in small spaces, 6 inches works well, but give more room (up to 9 inches) if airflow is a concern in humid areas.
- Soil Prep: Iceland poppies prefer neutral to slightly alkaline soil (pH 6.5–7.5). Before planting, amend the soil with compost or organic matter to improve drainage and fertility, especially in heavier soils.
- While Iceland poppies aren’t heavy drinkers, they prefer consistent moisture. Water deeply and less frequently to encourage strong root growth. Avoid letting the soil stay soggy, as this can lead to root rot.
- Pro-tip: Set up drip tape on automation for consistent watering and healthier plants—plus, it’ll save your sanity!
- In colder climates (like zone 6b), low tunnels with frost cloth are enough for late winter or early spring plantings. For fall planting, consider double tunnels to withstand snow and wind.
- Ensure good airflow in tunnels, especially during warm days, to prevent fungal issues. Ventilate as needed to keep the microclimate ideal.Curious about extending your growing season? Check out our Season Extension Guide for tips on using low tunnels, frost cloth, and more to protect your crops and maximize your harvest.
- Iceland poppies are light feeders but still benefit from regular nutrients. We typically use fish emulsion and kelp, compost tea, or a liquid fertilizer like FoxFarm Grow Big (for vegetative growth) and Tiger Bloom (to support flowering).
- Apply sparingly once plants are established, and be cautious not to over-fertilize, as it can lead to excessive foliage at the expense of blooms.
- Pests: Thrips, caterpillars, and earwigs can damage blooms. Start treatments early with spinosad or pyrethrins and encourage beneficial insects like lacewings and ladybugs. Sticky traps can also help monitor pest levels.
- Disease: Overwatering or poor airflow can lead to fungal issues like botrytis. Regularly inspect plants and remove any infected leaves or stems to prevent the spread.
- Heat Sensitivity: Iceland poppies prefer daytime temperatures in the 70s and cool nights. Prolong blooms by providing shade during hot spells and ensuring evening temperatures stay below 60°F. Mulching can help regulate soil temperature in hotter climates.
- Regular deadheading is essential to encourage continuous blooming. Removing spent flowers prevents the plant from putting energy into seed production and keeps your garden tidy, preventing potential disease and pests.
- Harvesting flowers early in the morning or evening can double as deadheading while ensuring you get the freshest blooms.
New to transplanting delicate seedlings? Check out our Transplanting Seedlings Guide for step-by-step instructions to minimize transplant shock and set your young plants up for success!
Iceland poppies in the growing patch, thriving under low tunnels in a vibrant mix of Bubbles series blooms.
Growing Iceland Poppies
Growing Iceland poppies might seem intimidating at first, but they’re surprisingly resilient and less demanding than they appear. Once you understand their needs, they’ll reward you with months of prolific blooms.
How to Grow Icelandic Poppies for the First Time – Cut Flower Garden
FAQ
Do Iceland poppies come back every year?
-
Short Lifespan:Iceland poppies are considered short-lived perennials, meaning they don’t typically last for several years.
-
Heat Sensitivity:They struggle with heat and humidity, making them more suited for cooler climates.
-
Easy Propagation:They can be easily grown from seed, and they tend to self-seed in gardens, notes the website.
Where is the best place to plant Iceland poppies?
These perennials are also excellent deer-resistant plants. Here are the main care requirements for growing Iceland poppies: Plant in full sun to part shade. Make sure the soil is rich and well-draining.
Are Icelandic poppies easy to grow?
Growing Iceland poppies might seem intimidating at first, but they’re surprisingly resilient and less demanding than they appear. Once you understand their needs, they’ll reward you with months of prolific blooms.
What is the best month to plant poppies?
In cool and cold climates, sow seeds or poppy bulbs from summer to early autumn, and in warm tropical and subtropical climates, sow from early autumn to winter.Aug 24, 2022
Can Icelandic poppies be transplanted?
Once you’ve got the poppies all grown to their first true leaf stage, you can start transplanting them into bigger containers.
Should you pinch Iceland poppies?
Iceland poppies grow best in cooler conditions – below 70°F. Bloom production and quality declines as temperatures rise. Surface-sow and keep soil evenly moist until seedlings emerge. Pinching plants is not necessary or beneficial.
How do you plant Iceland poppies?
Iceland poppies thrive in well- drained soil that receives full sun. Follow these steps to prepare your planting site: 1. Choose a sunny spot: Select a location that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day. 2. Loosen the soil: Use a garden fork or tiller to loosen the soil to a depth of 12 inches. 3.
When do Iceland poppies grow?
Plant seeds in their permanent outdoor space in late winter or early spring. Though these very slow-growing plants germinate from seed fast, they can take a while to bloom and usually start in late spring into early summer. Like other poppies, Iceland poppies contain alkaloids that are toxic to humans and animals.
What are Icelandic poppies?
Sometimes called Icelandic poppies, they belong to the Papaveraceae family of flowering plants and are native to sub-arctic Asia and North America. The most popular Iceland poppy cultivar, ‘Champagne Bubbles’, gets its name from its exceptionally floaty, bright red petals.
What kind of soil do Iceland poppies need?
Provide well-draining, fertile, and moist soil. A medium that is fertile, well-draining, and moist is preferred. Iceland poppies don’t mind cool spring soils and struggle when conditions become dry and hot. The soil pH should be between 6.0-7.0. Provide wood chips or organic straw to suppress weeds, retain moisture, and provide nutrients.
Are Iceland poppies good for gardeners?
Iceland poppies are a popular choice for gardeners for several reasons: Easy to grow: These poppies are relatively low-maintenance, making them ideal for beginner gardeners. Stunning blooms: Their vibrant, silky petals come in a wide range of colors, from classic reds and oranges to delicate pinks and yellows.
Do Iceland poppies need to be irrigated?
Iceland poppies don’t require a lot of irrigating once they’re established, but they’ll yield more blooms if they aren’t left to dry out. Water at the base to avoid splashing the delicate petals. The weight of any water left on the top part of the plant may cause drooping and bending of the stem.