I have not had any luck direct sowing perennial poppies. I have had success winter sowing them and transplanting the seedlings. One source said that as soon as they had two sets of leaves, they could be transplanted (quite small compared to other plants). I read this after I had transplanted my own. In zone 5, I do not think it would be too late to winter sow. Teresa

Last year I did my Poppies on April 29th and had sprouts by May 8th so I would say that you have plenty of time. Poppies are one of the easier plants to grow in jugs. Strouper

OK. So I just read through the link above (the lists). I guess maybe I should ask this: Is there anything that I should NOT sow now. What is too late? What are the things that need cold strat. off the top of your head to not do now?? Maybe that would be easier??? Thanks so much for your help. OH, should any of these things just be direct sown?? Poppies?? I could sow and put a pot over them for a few days while they germinate??? If I direct sow seeds, I have to remove the mulch right?? I can't just sprinkle seeds over the mulch??? Thanks so much for your help. Nichol

G'Day! - me too, out to scatter - as if i wasn't scattered enough already! - PERFECT weather for it. Warm enough that it's a pleasure to go out, but with the assurence of enough cold to come to 'stratify" things natureally. - Remember, a good watering will "settle the seeds in," giving good soil adhesion and reduce the amount the birds pick out. If you feel the need to buffer against excessive cold, just scatter some dead leaves. A very thin layer will not significantly block the sunlight poppy seeds prefer for good germination but will reduce windchil along the ground surface. - Happy gardening, -vlad