Early this morning I began my first attempt at Opium Poppy cultivation. With the assistance of Google and Erowid, I finally decided upon the Tasmanian Papaver Somniferum. Once decided upon, the seeds were donated to me by an acquaintance who has grown Poppies for many years and is especially proud of his Tasmanian crop.

Before I began to germinate the seeds, I prepared both the garden soil, and the soil in which the seeds would germinate. To germinate the seeds I chose to use biodegradable peat pots from the local garden store so as to avoid damaging the delicate root system when transplanting. I then thoroughly blended one part fine white sand to one part of the highest grade potting soil and poured it into both pots. The next step in soiil preparation was to perfect the soil in the part of my garden where they would eventually be planted. These preparations included mixing five parts premium planting soil, five parts fine white sand and one part compost. Now, seeing as how compost can be detrimental to the health of a plants roots if too acidic, I measured the pH of the mixture and added Dolomite Lime accordingly until the pH read a steady seven.

Preparations completed, it was finally time to plant the seeds. I placed five of the largest, healthiest looking seeds in each pot approximately 4 inches apart. To avoid washing away the tiny seeds, I gently misted the soil with a spray bottle until it was satisfactorily saturated at which time I place them in a partly shaded spot in my garden.

The seeds will be carefully monitored and cared for over the next 10-14 days during this critical period of germination. Once the sprouts have grown their first true leaves and reached heights of about 6 inches I will place the entire pot into the previously prepared soil.

May 26, 2008
Ten of the healthiest seeds have been planted.

May 27, 2008
There are no noticeable changes in any of the seeds.

May 28, 2008
There are no noticeable changes in any of the seeds.

May 29, 2008
There are no noticeable changes in any of the seeds.

good luck, I've always wanted to grow a crop of opium I love that stuff!!

yeah, me too, I hear it's pretty hard though, like the plant need is very fussy and needs lots of attention.

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