Poppies can come back every year. However, the specific type of poppy will determine whether it is an annual or perennial variety. Annual poppies, such as the California poppy, typically only live for one season. They will grow, flower, produce seeds, and then die off. However, they often self-seed, meaning that new plants may grow from the dropped seeds the following year.
On the other hand, perennial poppies have the ability to return and bloom year after year. Oriental poppies, for example, are a common type of perennial poppy. These poppies are usually started from seeds, and while they may not bloom in their first growing season, they will typically flower in their second year. Once established, perennial poppies can reliably bloom every year for many years, sometimes even for decades.
When starting perennial poppies from seeds, it’s important to be patient and understand that they may not bloom right away. It can be a bit of a waiting game, but the reward of beautiful blooms in subsequent years is worth it. I remember planting Oriental poppy seeds in my garden a few years ago and eagerly anticipating their first bloom. Although I was initially disappointed when they did not flower in the first year, I was thrilled when they finally burst into color the following spring.
If you prefer to have blooming poppies in the same year you plant them, you can opt to purchase established plants from a garden center. These already-grown poppies should bloom in their first year, providing you with immediate gratification and a burst of color in your garden.
Once perennial poppies are established in your garden, they typically require minimal care. They are generally quite hardy and can tolerate a range of conditions, including poor soil and dry spells. However, they do prefer a sunny location with well-draining soil. It’s also important to deadhead the spent blooms to encourage more flowers and prevent the plants from going to seed too quickly.
While annual poppies may not come back every year, perennial poppies have the potential to bloom reliably year after year. Whether starting from seeds or purchasing established plants, poppies can bring long-lasting beauty and charm to your garden.
