Himalayan blue poppy 'Slieve Donard Meconopsis (Infertile Blue Group) 'Slieve Donard'

Water

The Blue Poppy, including cultivars like 'Slieve Donard', needs to be kept consistently moist without being waterlogged. Water the plants deeply so that the water reaches the root zone, usually about 1 to 2 gallons per week, depending on the weather conditions and soil drainage. During hot spells or dry periods, it may be necessary to water more frequently, ensuring that the soil doesn't dry out completely. Conversely, in cooler or rainy periods, reduce the watering accordingly, but never let the soil become completely dry. Overhead watering should be avoided to prevent leaf and flower diseases.

Light

The Blue Poppy prefers a sheltered position with dappled sunlight or partial shade, especially in areas with hot summers. The ideal spot for this plant would protect it from the harsh afternoon sun while providing enough morning light or light filtered through canopy leaves. Direct sunlight can scorch the delicate leaves and petals, especially in warmer climates.

Temperature

The Blue Poppy thrives in cooler conditions and does best with day temperatures between 50°F and 65°F, while it can survive minimum temperatures down to 32°F for short periods. The plant may struggle and could be damaged if exposed to temperatures above 80°F for extended periods. It's essential to plant them in a location where the temperatures remain within these cooler ranges, especially during summer.

Pruning

The Blue Poppy doesn't require regular pruning, but deadheading spent flowers can encourage additional blooming and prevent the plant from directing energy into seed production. Prune away any dead or damaged foliage as needed to maintain plant health. The best time for any necessary pruning is immediately after flowering has finished.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

The Himalayan Blue Poppy thrives in a soil mix that is well-draining yet moisture-retentive, consisting mainly of leaf mold and peat with some added grit for drainage. The soil pH should be acidic to slightly alkaline, ranging from pH 6.0 to 7.5, to accommodate the plant's preferences.

Repotting

Himalayan Blue Poppies should be repotted every year in the spring, as they are perennial plants and benefit from refreshment of their soil to support their growth and flowering.

Humidity & Misting

Himalayan Blue Poppy prefers high humidity levels but needs to avoid waterlogged conditions. Aim for a humidity level of around 60-70% for optimal growth.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Keep cool, provide bright light, and maintain high humidity.

• Outdoor

  Partial shade, sheltered location, moist soil.

• Hardiness zone

  5-7 USDA

Life cycle

The Meconopsis, commonly known as the Himalayan blue poppy, begins its life cycle when seeds germinate in cool, moist conditions, typically in spring. The seedlings develop into a rosette of leaves the first year, staying close to the ground. During the second year, the plant sends up a flowering stem with the characteristic large, vivid blue flowers that bloom in late spring or early summer. After flowering, the plant sets seed and then the biennial specimens die, completing their life cycle; however, in some cases, plants can behave as short-lived perennials, sprouting again for another season. For the plant species to continue, the falling seeds must find suitable conditions where they can germinate and repeat the cycle. Gardeners often collect seeds to sow them manually to ensure the perpetuation of new plants for the next flowering season.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring to early summer

• The most popular method of propagation for the Himalayan blue poppy, specifically the Meconopsis (Infertile Blue Group) 'Slieve Donard', is through seed sowing. The ideal time to sow seeds is in late winter to early spring. Fresh seeds should be scattered thinly on the surface of a moist, well-drained, peat-based compost in trays or pots, and then lightly covered with a fine layer of compost or vermiculite. The seeds need a period of cold stratification to germinate, which can be achieved by placing the sown seeds in a refrigerator for about four weeks at approximately 39 to 41 degrees Fahrenheit (4 to 5 degrees Celsius). After this period, the seeds should be moved to a cooler spot, around 50 to 59 degrees Fahrenheit (10 to 15 degrees Celsius), where they can germinate. Consistent moisture and protection from direct sunlight are important until the seedlings are strong enough to be transplanted into individual pots or their final position in the garden.