How to propagate oriental poppies
Find out how to take root cuttings from oriental poppies in five easy steps.
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
To do | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes |
Oriental poppies are a stunning addition to a border and are easy to propagate by taking root cuttings.
Discover 10 oriental poppies to grow.
They make perfect candidates for this propagation method as it exploits the plant's propensity to reproduce itself from every scrap of root left behind when plants are moved. Once most fleshy rooted plants are established it is impossible to eliminate them.
Once you have planted up your cuttings and new shoots have emerged, wait a little longer (new roots are made just after new shoots), pot individually and plant out when they've formed a good root system.
Here's how to take root cuttings from oriental poppies.
You Will Need
- Sharp knife
- Seed trays or modules
- Peat-free seed compost
- Horticultural grit
Step 1
Lift a clump of the oriental poppy that you want to take cuttings from or just scrape away the soil around the roots.
Step 2
Trim off a good section of the roots with a knife.
Step 3
Cut the root into short lengths (around 2.5cm) and push these vertically into a seed tray, of compost, thick end up.
Step 4
Cover the seed tray with a thin layer of grit to improve drainage and water well.
Step 5
Wait until new shoots have emerged and formed new roots, before potting up singly.
Festive subscription offer
Save 51% on the shop price. Subscribe to BBC Gardeners' World Magazine today and get 6 months of free seeds for Spring 2025.
Year Planner 2025 on sale
Starting to plan your gardening year? The Year Planner 2025 is packed with expert advice from the Gardeners’ World team, to ensure you have your best gardening year yet.
Discover our new digital travel brochure
Whether it's a thrilling Arctic cruise or a charming getaway to historic Bath, our NEW travel brochure has exciting options for everyone.
Discover Dangerous Plants
From witchcraft to murder mysteries, uncover the power of plants in the new BBC Gardeners' World Magazine podcast series.