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Poppy plant troubled #871101

Asked June 01, 2024, 8:36 PM EDT

Hello, My poppy plant is about three years old.  In recent years, it has been very bushy and bloomed well, appearing to be quite healthy. This year it has not grown to be a bushy plant and some of the leaves / stems have been getting yellow and then dying. It only grew four buds this year The forget-me-nots that are around it appear very healthy. Today when I was checking out the poppy some of the stems easily broke off at the ground, and I found a slug just under soil level ( removed it). The plant does not have any obvious pests, but some of the yellowing leaves have small brown spots on them that are not on the green leaves. What are your thoughts and any ideas on how I can remedy this problem? I have included a picture that I took this evening. Thank you! 

Larimer County Colorado

Expert Response

Hi Terese,

First, check the drip irrigation to make sure it's working. And if it's working, make sure that it's not overwatering the poppy. These are fairly drought tolerant plants.

Second, remove the other grass and weeds around the plant to reduce competition. Add some mulch (whatever you prefer).

Poppies don't like extreme heat and they tend to yellow and go dormant following flowering. Since the plant is fairly young (most perennial take at least three years to establish), it might still be putting resources into developing its roots and not the flowers. 
Alison O'Connor, PhD Replied June 03, 2024, 4:14 PM EDT
Thank you Alison! I'll try out your suggestions. 
I appreciate your help

Terese Hayward 

On Mon, Jun 3, 2024 at 2:14 PM, Ask Extension
The Question Asker Replied June 03, 2024, 11:02 PM EDT

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