Poppies (Papaver) seem to be increasing in numbers these last few years and this year is no exception. Hedgerows, fields set aside and gardens are awash with many different varieties. Non more common or striking than the scarlet of Papaver rhoeas.
Garden poppies range from the annual or evergreen perennial Iceland poppy Papaver nudicaule, with bright red, yellow or orange flowers and sweet fragrance, to the large variety of perennial oriental poppy Papaver orientale, with the crinkled edges and 
rich colours ranging from deep red to salmon pink.
rich colours ranging from deep red to salmon pink. If you like a particular variety and want to grow some more next year elsewhere in the garden, then save the seeds.
Tie a paper bag over a seed head that is maturing. When the seeds are ripe, shake the head so all the seeds fall into the bag. Cut off the seed head from the stalk and save in a cool, dry area.
Note!
Do not use a plastic bag as the seeds have to be thoroughly dry and they can sweat in plastic bags.
Once dried out, remove the seed head and pour the seeds into a clean dry envelope. Write the name and a brief description of the seeds, on the front of the envelope and keep safe in a dry area ready for sowing next year. Storing them in the garage, shed or green house which will get cold through the winter is actually good for them and increases the yield rate.
Seeds of F1 hybrids do not come 'true' - which may not be a problem, just wait and see what you get!
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