This time it is Meconopsis betonicifolia that is standing out from the surrounding planting.
These are kept well away from the borders that contain M. “Lingholm” which flowered last month.
I’m hoping that all the bees will concentrate on pollinating M. betonicifolia which is now flowering, rather than visiting old flower heads of M Lingholm, don’t want them cross pollinating.
Some of these flowers seem to have formed flowers with 6 petals – I thought they all had 4- still beautiful, with a bit of a twist to the petals , which makes them look very frilly.
At the moment I am growing 84 seedlings of M betonicifolia and hopefully will plant these out in the autumn in the woodland area.
The flowers of M.betonicifolia are about half the size of M. “Lingholm” , not sure if this is how they should be, I still think they are gorgeous. Definitely a “must have” plant !
Not many people down here in Devon grow Meconopsis, it is usually too warm for them – they do like it cool and moist but well drained. Mine are all planted in the shade with added compost and a leaf mould mulch., they seem to be fine.
The few that I planted in a border around an ancient dead oak were in the shade until we cut a smaller tree down and now they are in too much sunlight. As soon as they have finished flowering they will be moved to join the others that are really happy at the other side of the garden.
I’m now just waiting for Meconopsis grandis to flower – just one plant of this variety – I have been waiting a long time for this flower – 2 yrs ! Will tell you its story when I do a post about it.
I really do love my meconopsis and would hate to be without them. They are more labour intensive than other plants, but I feel so worth the extra time spent on them. Do you have certain plants that you would go the extra mile for ?
Dear Pauline, these flowers are definitely to die for – I know no other blue quite like it. I found your question interesting. I don’t think I go the extra mile for any plant and never have. I suppose it is laziness partly, and definitely lack of sentimentality. I think I just wanted to see what would grow easily and sustainably in my garden. love your blog, and intend to be a regular and frequent visitor. cheers, catmint
Thanks catmint for your lovely comments, I think it was the shade of blue that got me hooked, plus I like a challenge ! Also, I am so thankful when any plant thrives in my heavy acid clay, I just have to have more of it !
Hi Pauline,
I would go the extra mile – and do – for meconopsis b. Unfortunately I have so far had no luck whatsoever with growing them from seed – keep trying but they just don’t germinate. I even do the freezer/fridge scarifying bit. How do you get them to germinate? Should one only do it early spring late autumn?
Meconopsis are actually the reason I found your blog, and I have been admiring yours very much.
Helle
First of all, thank you Helle for visiting my blog. I put my seeds in the fridge, not the freezer until late autumn. Where do you get your seed from, is it fresh seed, if bought from a garden centre it could be dead ? Maybe you need to buy just one plant then save your own seed. Hope this is some help to you. Glad to know that you are as passionate about meconopsis as I am.