Supreme Shirley Poppy is a stunning cultivar of Papaver rhoeas that brings the delicate, tissue-paper petals of classic garden poppies to 30 inches of unblemished elegance. From seed to bloom in 98 days, this variety colors the garden from spring through summer with flowers that deer won't touch and pollinators absolutely love. Direct sowing in autumn or early spring rewards you with a reliable, low-maintenance display that thrives in full sun and moderate water.
10
Full Sun
Moderate
3-9
30in H x 10in W
—
High
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The Supreme Shirley stands out for its reliable performance and genuine ease of care; poppies have a reputation for being finicky, but this variety germinates quickly (5-14 days) and rewards direct sowing over any fussy indoor starting. The flowers emerge consistently across a long bloom window from March through August, giving you months of color from a single spring sowing. Deer resistance combined with serious pollinator appeal makes this a rare plant that adds beauty without sacrificing the living garden around it.
Supreme Shirley Poppies are grown primarily for cut flowers and ornamental garden display. The delicate, papery blooms are exceptional in bouquets, though they're best enjoyed fresh as they're somewhat fleeting. They create luminous drifts of color in borders and cottage gardens, where their airy texture and bright flowers light up spring and early summer beds.
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Sow seeds in pots 6-8 weeks before your last spring frost. Cover lightly with vermiculite or use a humidity dome, keeping soil at 65-70°F until germination, then lower temperatures to 50-60°F. Be extremely gentle when transplanting seedlings, as poppies are very sensitive to root disturbance and prefer direct sowing.
Transplant seedlings carefully after the last frost date, handling them minimally to avoid shocking the roots. Harden off for 7-10 days before moving them to their permanent location.
Direct sowing is recommended and produces the strongest plants. Sow 4 weeks before your last spring frost, or in late autumn (autumn sowing works in zones 8 and warmer). Mix seed with fine sand and scatter thinly over prepared soil; the light requirement for germination means you should not bury the seed.
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