Tips for Using California Poppy in a Sustainable Garden

As a California native, California poppies (Eschscholzia californica) can be easily naturalized in a California garden by allowing plants to set seed pods and drop seeds.

Plant California poppies with species of plants similar to those found in its native habitat, especially with those with the similar need of superior drainage, such as Arroyo Lupine (Lupinus succulentus) and Broadleaf Lupine (Lupinus latifolius), or other California natives to create a garden filled with beautiful textures and colors. California poppies can be planted on a hillside to help prevent erosion.

With extremely high levels of pollen production, the poppy is an important food source for beneficial insects. While the California poppy will attract a multitude of beneficial insects that may help to pollinate fruiting vegetable crops, do not interplant poppies with typical garden vegetables; unlike typical garden vegetables, poppies thrive in low-fertility soil that does not retain water.

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