Corn poppies need sowing suited to the local season and identified seed. Keep the packet and allow space for developing leaves and flower stems.
Sow where roots can develop
Corn poppy, Papaver rhoeas, is an annual best planned around its growing season. Sow according to local timing and the seed packet, often directly where plants are wanted. Its small seeds do not need to be buried beneath a heavy layer of soil.
Keep the surface steady
Prepare a fine seedbed with good drainage. Maintain gentle, even moisture while seeds germinate, avoiding a strong stream that washes them into piles. Thin seedlings so the eventual plants have room rather than leaving a dense patch of weak stems.
Give flowers useful light
Choose an open position with sunlight, allowing for local summer heat. Water young plants during dry periods without saturating the bed. Heavy feeding is not a substitute for an appropriate position and can encourage soft growth.
Decide about seed
Individual flowers are brief, even when the planting provides a longer display. Remove fading heads if seed dispersal is unwanted, or collect selected mature capsules. Avoid scattering surplus seed beyond the intended growing area.
Related reading
Preparing Flower Seeds for Sowing