To give away poppy seeds do I pull off the pods and when ?

Question

I have 4 or 5 types of Poppy in my Garden - loads of them. My Neighbours have asked for seeds but I have no idea when to get them. Some have finished flowering and some are in full flower now. (Early July. N.West England U.K.) Do I pull off the pods from the top when they have finished flowering or do I let them die off a bit - I have no idea and can't find the answer anywhere. All other items on poppy seed mention the seeds (not the pods) or baking - these are just for growing in neighbours gardens. Thank you to anyone who can tell me what I should do. Regards Myrna

Answer 1

Hi Myrna,

Let the petals fall off the spent flowers. A "pod" will be left. Wait for the pod to turn brown, harden slightly, and begin to open. At this time the seeds will be ripe. Carefully break the pod off into a paper bag, envelope, or glass baby jar, as seeds will most likely fall out of the pod during harvest. Store in a dark, dry place, such a s a closet, until it's time to plant.