Poppies

Even in a much more controlled garden setting, growing and transplanting poppies can be highly successful. Simply take a pinch of about 10 to 20 seeds, and sprinkle them over the top of the soil (figure F). These seeds need light to germinate, so don’t bury them beneath the soil surface. Use a good quality potting mix and tamp down the soil surface so that the tiny seeds aren't lost when watering.

Poppies like to germinate in cool weather, about 50 to 60 degrees F, one reason why they are considered cool-weather plants. "But even in extreme climates, odds are there's a poppy that will grow easily once germinated," says James.

Transplanting poppies is a little different. Choose seedlings that have their first set of true leaves but are still quite small. Gently lift the seedlings apart, being careful not to damage the roots. Then poke a hole about the size of a root ball in the soil. Gently place the seedling in the hole, holding the leaves above the soil surface. Make sure the stem is completely covered up to the first set of leaves, to anchor the seedling and maximize contact with the soil.

As the flowers fade, poppies develop seed heads that rattle, which means they are ready to harvest. Have a paper bag or bowl to catch the seeds in, especially if it's a windy day. "I know the plant looks pretty ratty looking, but this is the plant in its mature state" (figure H), says Hayes. "And that's when it's ready to give you its seeds." Once the seeds are harvested or have spread naturally in the wind, pull the plant from the ground.