How to Grow Plume Poppy (Macleaya Cordata)

Plume poppy is a tall plant with oaklike leaves and sprays of white or pink flowers in summer. It grows up to 8 feet high and may need staking.

Things You'll Need

• Bypass Pruners
• Compost Makers
• Fertilizers
• Garden Stakes
• Mulch
• Plants

Instructions

Choosing Plume Poppy

1. Look for plants at nurseries in spring and summer.

2. Buy plume poppy in 6-inch to 1-gallon containers.

3. Choose healthy-looking plants with signs of new growth in leaves and flower buds.

Planting Plume Poppy

1. Plant plume poppy in full sun in well-drained soil.

2. Add a light application of organic fertilizer to the planting hole.

3. Place the plants no deeper than they were growing in the containers.

4. Set the plants 2 feet apart.

5. Mulch around but not on top of the plants with 3 inches of organic compost.

6. Water well until soil is completely moist.

Caring for Plume Poppy

1. Remove old foliage in spring, using bypass pruners to cut the old stems back to the ground.

2. Apply a light application of organic fertilizer on top of the soil in early spring; follow package directions.

3. Mulch around but not on top of the plants with 3 inches of organic compost in spring.

4. Water well weekly until soil is completely moist in summers with no rainfall.