Plant Detectives Forncett Summer Oriental Poppy

This is a natural part of the poppy's life cycle. As the plant enters its summer dormancy, the foliage will yellow and die back; you can simply trim it to the ground to tidy up the bed. It is helpful to plant later-blooming perennials like coneflowers or ornamental grasses nearby to fill the empty space left behind.

Oriental poppies generally struggle in heavy, wet soil, which can cause the roots to rot. If you have clay, amend the planting site with organic matter or grit to improve drainage, or consider planting them in a raised bed to ensure they stay dry enough during the winter.

This variety performs best in full sun, which means at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight daily. While it might survive in partial shade, you will likely see fewer blooms and a weaker, floppier stem structure.

Yes, Oriental poppies are generally unappealing to deer and rabbits due to the slightly fuzzy, coarse texture of their foliage. They are a reliable choice for gardens where wildlife browsing is a common concern.

While they are primarily garden plants, you can grow them in large, deep containers provided you use a well-draining potting mix. Keep in mind that they have a long taproot, so they prefer to stay in one place rather than being frequently transplanted.