California poppy 'Fruit Crush' Eschscholzia californica 'Fruit Crush'

Water

California Poppy 'Fruit Crush' should be watered deeply but infrequently, as it is drought-tolerant. Ideally, you should give the plants a good soak, allowing water to penetrate the soil to a depth of at least 10-12 inches. This can be achieved by applying approximately 1 gallon of water per plant every 7 to 10 days, depending on weather conditions. During hot and dry spells, you may need to water more frequently, but always allow the soil to dry out between watering sessions. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other issues, so it is better to err on the side of underwatering for this plant.

Light

The California Poppy 'Fruit Crush' thrives in full sun conditions. It should be placed in a location where it can receive at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. The best spot for this plant is an open area, away from tall buildings or trees that could cast shade on it. Ample sunlight will ensure the healthiest growth and most vibrant blooms.

Temperature

California Poppy 'Fruit Crush' prefers moderate to warm temperatures, with an ideal range between 60°F and 85°F. It can withstand short periods of higher temperatures up to 100°F. The plant is also somewhat cold-tolerant and can survive minimum temperatures hovering around the freeze point of 32°F, though it performs best when not exposed to prolonged freezing conditions.

Pruning

Pruning California Poppy 'Fruit Crush' encourages more blooms and extends the flowering season. Deadheading spent flowers can be done throughout the blooming period to keep the plant looking tidy. Cutting back the foliage by a third after the first bloom flush can stimulate a second round of flowering. The best time for heavy pruning is late winter or early spring, before the onset of new growth.

Cleaning

Not needed

Soil

California Poppy 'Fruit Crush' thrives in well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. A mix containing sandy loam or gravelly soil is ideal. Organic matter like compost can be added to enrich poor soils, but avoid heavy, clay-like substrates that retain moisture.

Repotting

California Poppies typically do not require frequent repotting as they are annuals. They can be sown directly into the ground or into a permanent container where they can grow without disturbance.

Humidity & Misting

California Poppy 'Fruit Crush' is tolerant of a wide range of humidity levels and prefers a dry to moderate humidity climate. It does not require any special humidity adjustments.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Grow in bright, direct light and well-draining soil.

• Outdoor

  Plant in full sun and well-draining sandy soil.

• Hardiness zone

  5-10 USDA

Life cycle

The life of California poppy 'Fruit Crush' begins with seed germination, typically in late winter or early spring, when soil temperatures warm up. The seedlings emerge, forming a rosette of leaves as they establish a root system. As the plants mature in the spring and early summer, they produce long stems topped with large, vividly colored, satiny flowers which often exhibit a range of shades including orange, red and pink. After pollination, primarily by bees, the flowers develop elongated seed pods that eventually dry and split open to release numerous small, dark seeds. This annual or perennial plant then completes its cycle; if conditions allow, the seeds may lie dormant until the next suitable growing season, or they might germinate immediately if moisture is available. California poppy 'Fruit Crush' may also self-sow, ensuring the presence of future generations without additional planting.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• The California poppy, known scientifically as Eschscholzia californica 'Fruit Crush', is most commonly propagated through seeds. The ideal time to sow California poppy seeds is in early spring, after the danger of frost has passed, or in autumn where winters are mild. To propagate, simply scatter the seeds directly onto a well-prepared garden bed where you intend the flowers to grow, as they do not transplant well due to their delicate root system. After scattering, gently press the seeds into the soil but do not cover them, since they need light to germinate. Keep the soil moist until germination, which typically occurs within two to three weeks. This method harnesses the plant's natural cycle, reproducing the way it self-seeds in the wild.