the U.S. Postal Service.  

Germination Instructions

Soil temperature: 55 - 60 degrees fahrenheit
Germination lighting: Light required
Germination days: 20 -2 8 days
Plant spread: 6 - 10 inches
Plant height:  32''
Plant type: Annual
Seed Count: 500
Maturation days: 55 days

How to Sow Poppy Seeds:

From late fall to late winter loosen enriched garden soil down to a 6" depth.  For zones 3-7 it's best to direct seed into your garden after your first freeze in the fall.  For zones 8-9, or mild zones like California,  you will get better results if you cold treat your seeds (see below) and sow them during the winter.