How To Save Poppy Seeds

Poppy Seeds

Looking to save poppy seeds? Well, you’re in the right place! Poppy seeds are an incredible flower with a lot going for them both aesthetically and nutritionally. Read on for more info!

Poppy plants belong to the Papaveraceae family and are known for their beautiful, vibrant flowers and delicate petals. They typically have four to six brightly colored petals ranging in colors such as red, pink, orange, or purple. They’ve been painted by artists such as Vincent Van Gogh and seen in movies as popular as The Wizard of Oz.

There are several species of poppy flowers, including the opium poppy (Papaver somniferum), which is commonly used to produce the controlled substance opium. Due to its potential for abuse and addiction, the cultivation, production, and sale of opium poppies and their derivatives, such as opium and heroin, are illegal in most parts of the world.

However, the use of the most common poppy seeds, corn poppy (Papaver rhoeas), are used for culinary and medicinal purposes and are legal and safe when consumed in moderation. If you can put all the fame aside, you’re left with a stunning, delicate flower.

Poppy Seeds

There are different varieties of poppy seeds, and knowing the variety will help identify the seeds so you know which ones to save. For example:

• California Poppy (Eschscholzia California) has small, cone-shaped seed pods
• Oriental Poppy (Papaver orientale) has large, round seed pods.

Whatever poppy seeds you have, they are rich in nutrients and include:

• protein
• fiber
• minerals, such as calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus
• omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids

Chefs from around the world use poppies for cooking and baking. They are used in baked goods such as bread, cakes, and pastries, as well as topping for salads, stir-fries, and other dishes. They aren’t only used for their flavor but for health benefits such as reducing inflammation and improving digestive health.

Saving poppy plants

Waiting for the flower to bloom takes 90 days from seed to flower. Once the flowers have bloomed, you’ll want to make sure you have them every year, and you can by saving the harvested seeds for future planting. If you harvest the seeds correctly, they should be good to plant for up to a year. Saving poppy seeds is simple, enjoyable, and be done in just a few easy steps.

Step 1 – Choose the seeds

Choosing the right poppy seeds will give the best chance for successful germination. To choose the right poppy plants, look for healthy plants that have finished blooming. Skip the light green or soft pods as well as those that are damp and wet. Instead, look for those brown in color that have healthy foliage and are free of disease and pests.

Use a pair of pruning shears or scissors and cut the pods, leaving a small section of stem attached.

Step 2 – Storing Seeds

Storing seeds is fast and easy – just place them in a paper bag or envelope and store them in a cool, dry location like a refrigerator until they’re ready to be planted. Shake the bag to know if they’re ready – you’ll hear a rattling sound.

Step 3 – Opening Seed Pods

Open the sea pods by placing the pods over a bowl to ensure the seeds don’t roll everywhere when they fall out. Gently crush the pods with your fingers being careful not to crush the seeds. If the seeds don’t fall out easily, you can use a pair of pliers or a nutcracker to help them along.

Tips for Saving Poppy Seeds:

• Harvest the seed pods when they are completely dry and crispy
• Label your poppy seeds with the variety and date of harvest before storing them
• Store poppy seeds in a cool, dry location, such as the refrigerator or freezer

Planting Seeds

Questions about poppy seeds

Will poppies bloom in the first year?

No, Poppies will not bloom the first year, but they should the second year and every year after that.

Can I plant poppies in pots?

Yes, Poppies do well in pots on patios and in your garden. Just make sure they have enough sun and well-drained soil.

What can I plant with my Poppies?

Plants that work well with poppies include Hyacinths, Dahlias, and Marigolds.

Are Poppies hard to grow from seed?

Most of your seeds will not germinate, especially those you harvested. To give your seeds the best chance, you can purchase poppy seeds. Before planting, soaking them overnight in warm water will also give them a headstart.

When Do Poppies bloom?

Poppies are a cold-weather plant and will bloom between April and June.

Do I have To Replant Every Year?

Poppies are perennials, so there is no need to replant, they’ll be back every year.

Should I mulch my Poppy Seeds?

No, it is not necessary to mulch. Poppy seeds need light. They won’t grow under mulch.

Poppy varieties that grow in the United States

Recipe Ideas

If you’re looking for something to do with your saved poppy seeds, why not add them to your diet? If that interests you, we’ve included some of our favorite recipes below.

Lemon Poppy Seed Muffins

Poppy seeds and lemon are a great combination. You can always buy muffin mix or sprinkle add some to your favorite muffin recipe for a nutty flavor.

Poppy Seed Chicken

Add some poppy seeds to your favorite cream sauce and serve it over chicken. Not only will the poppy seeds add a nutty flavor to the dish, but they also help to thicken the sauce.

Poppy Seed Bagels

There’s nothing like a bagel to start your morning, and poppies add a crunchy texture and nutty flavor to the chewy bagels. They are perfect for breakfast or as a snack.

Poppy Seed Dressing

You can always sprinkle some poppy seeds in your salad or just buy a ready-made poppy seed dressing. If you’re one who likes to make your own, add some to your honey mustard.

Our favorite is – apple cider vinegar, dijon mustard, honey, olive oil, a slice of lemon, and of course, poppy seeds. It has a tangy flavor that pairs well with fresh greens and vegetables.

Poppy Seed Kolache

Sweet pastries with cream cheese, sugar, and butter, are a great dessert. Add a few of your saved poppy seeds, and you will have perfection.

 

Poppy Seed Crackers

Crackers are made with black poppy seeds and are perfect for snacking. They are crunchy and flavorful, and they pair well with cheese or hummus.

Poppy Seed Cake

If you’re looking for a traditional Hungarian cake, a yeast cake with poppy seed filling may have your name on it.

Lemon Poppy Seed Pancakes

Pancakes made with poppy seeds, and a tangy lemon flavor make them perfect for a special breakfast or brunch. Serve them with fresh berries and whipped cream for an extra special touch.

Poppy Seed Hummus

Make your own hummus, it’s so easy. Add chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil to a blender and sprinkle with black poppy seeds. You’ll never go back to store-bought. The poppy seeds add a nice crunch and nutty flavor to the hummus, making it perfect for dipping vegetables or pita chips.

Poppy Seed Roll

A sweet bread with poppy seeds in a filling made with sugar, cinnamon, and raisins. It’s perfect for breakfast or as a dessert, and it’s sure to be a hit with everyone who tries it.

Conclusion

Poppy seeds are easy to harvest and dry out for the following year. When handled correctly, you will find beautiful delicate flowers with vibrant colors that you can enjoy for years to come.

Even though they’re beautiful to look at, they come with many added benefits – they give baked goods such as muffins, cakes, and pancakes a nutty flavor that will have you coming back for more. All and all, poppy seeds are absolutely worth saving.