Origin
Eschscholzia lemmonii Greene ssp. kernensis (Munz) C. Clark, commonly known as Kern County poppy, is a subspecies of the Lemmon's poppy variety. It is found in central California's San Joaquin Valley and along the Sierra Nevada foothills.
Common Names
Kern County poppy is also known by a number of different common names, such as Lemmon's poppy, Kern poppy, and Mojave poppy.
Uses
Eschscholzia lemmonii Greene ssp. kernensis does not have any significant economic uses, but it is a very attractive wildflower that is used in gardens and landscaping. It is often grown for its bright yellow-orange flowers and long bloom time.
General Appearance
The Kern County poppy is a perennial herb that typically reaches heights between 15 and 45 cm, with a basal leaf rosette that can range from 5 to 25 cm. Its flowers are large and showy, with petals ranging from 2 to 5 cm long. The petals are typically orange-yellow in color, but they can also be lemon-yellow or pale yellow. The plant produces flowers from March to May, and its fruit is a long, thin capsule filled with small seeds.
Light requirements
Eschscholzia lemmonii Greene ssp. kernensis (Munz) C. Clark is a sun-loving plant that thrives in areas with full sunlight. It requires at least 6 hours of bright, direct sunlight daily. Lack of sufficient sunlight will lead to stunted growth and poor flowering.
Temperature requirements
The plant can tolerate a broad range of temperatures, but it prefers warm and dry conditions. The optimum temperature range for growth is between 60°F to 80°F (15.5°C to 26.6°C). Temperatures below 40°F (4.4°C) can cause the plant to die, while temperatures above 90°F (32°C) can lead to wilting and leaf scorching.
Soil requirements
Eschscholzia lemmonii Greene ssp. kernensis (Munz) C. Clark grows best in well-drained sandy or loamy soils with a pH range between 6.0 to 7.5. It is a drought-tolerant plant that cannot survive in water-logged soils, so it is essential to plant it in soil with good drainage. The soil should be fertile and rich in organic matter, and the addition of compost before planting can improve soil fertility and structure.
Cultivation Methods
Eschscholzia lemmonii Greene ssp. kernensis (Munz) C. Clark is a wildflower that can be cultivated in pots or in a garden bed. When planting in a pot, it's advisable to use a well-draining potting mix. The best time to plant is during the fall when temperatures are moderate.
Watering Needs
Eschscholzia lemmonii Greene ssp. kernensis (Munz) C. Clark is drought tolerant, and it requires watering only when the soil is dry. When watering, make sure to do so in the morning and avoid getting water on the leaves, as this can encourage fungal growth. Overwatering can lead to root rot and damage the plant.
Fertilization
Eschscholzia lemmonii Greene ssp. kernensis (Munz) C. Clark does not need much fertilization. However, during the growing season, you can add a slow-release fertilizer every two to three months. Avoid using too much fertilizer, as this can encourage foliage growth instead of flower production.
Pruning
Eschscholzia lemmonii Greene ssp. kernensis (Munz) C. Clark is a low-maintenance plant that does not require much pruning. However, to encourage more blooms, it's advisable to deadhead the spent flowers regularly. Deadheading not only encourages more flowers, but it also prolongs the blooming period. You can also cut back the plant after it finishes flowering to maintain its shape.
Propagation of Eschscholzia lemmonii Greene ssp. kernensis (Munz) C. Clark
Eschscholzia lemmonii Greene ssp. kernensis (Munz) C. Clark, commonly known as Kern County poppy, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Papaveraceae family. It is endemic to California, specifically in the Kern County region. Propagating Eschscholzia lemmonii can be done through various methods such as seed propagation, division, and cuttings.
Seed Propagation
The most common method of propagating Eschscholzia lemmonii is through its seeds. Seed propagation is best done during the fall or early winter months, in a well-draining soil mix. To ensure successful seed germination, it is recommended to prep the seeds by stratification, which is done by placing the seeds in a moist paper towel within a sealed plastic bag in the refrigerator for two to four weeks. After stratification, sow the seeds in flats or small pots, lightly cover them with soil, and water lightly to ensure the soil is moist enough. Place the flats or pots in a warm and sunny area and keep the soil moist until the seeds germinate, usually within two weeks.
Division
Eschscholzia lemmonii can also be propagated through division, which involves splitting the plant's root clump. This method is best done during the plant's dormant season, which is typically during the late fall to early spring months. Start by digging up the plant and gently removing any soil around the roots. Then, carefully separate the clump into smaller sections, making sure each section has some roots and foliage. Transplant the divided sections into well-draining soil mix and water thoroughly.
Cuttings
Propagation of Eschscholzia lemmonii can also be done through cuttings, particularly during its active growing period, which is from spring to early summer. Take stem cuttings that are at least 4-6 inches long and remove their lower leaves to expose the stem. Dip the base of the cutting in rooting hormone and plant in a pot filled with a well-draining soil mix. Keep the soil moist and place the pot in a warm and bright area. After a few weeks, the cutting should begin to form roots and develop new leaves.
Disease and Pest Management for Eschscholzia lemmonii Greene ssp. kernensis (Munz) C. Clark
Eschscholzia lemmonii Greene ssp. kernensis (Munz) C. Clark, commonly known as Kern County jewel flower or Lemmon's poppy, is a native Californian plant that belongs to the family Papaveraceae. Like all other plants, it may suffer from various diseases and pests that can cause harm. Here, we will discuss some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and suggest ways to manage them.
Diseases
Mildew: Mildew is a common fungal disease that can affect the leaves of Eschscholzia lemmonii. It often appears as a white or gray powdery substance on the upper or lower surfaces of leaves. To manage mildew, remove the infected leaves and destroy them. Increase air circulation, reduce humidity, and avoid watering in the evening. Fungicides can also be used to control mildew.
Root rot: Root rot is a serious fungal disease that affects the roots of plants. Symptoms include yellowing or wilting of the leaves and stunted growth. To prevent root rot, it's important to avoid over-watering and ensure good drainage. If your plant is infected with root rot, remove it and dispose of it properly.
Viral diseases: There are several viral diseases that can affect Eschscholzia lemmonii, such as mosaic and yellow ringspot. These diseases can cause mottled or discolored leaves, stunted growth, and reduced flower production. Unfortunately, there is no cure for viral diseases. The best way to manage them is to remove the infected plants and avoid introducing the virus to healthy plants.
Pest Control
Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that suck the sap out of the plant. They can cause leaves to curl or distort, and may also produce a sticky substance called honeydew. To control aphids, wash them off with a strong stream of water, or use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Snails and slugs: Snails and slugs are common pests that can damage Eschscholzia lemmonii by feeding on the leaves and flowers. To control them, remove any hiding places like rocks or debris where they might be hiding. You can also use physical barriers like copper tape, or apply snail and slug bait around the plant.
Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that can cause stippling or discoloration on the leaves of Eschscholzia lemmonii. They are often found on the undersides of leaves. To control spider mites, spray the plant with water to increase humidity, or use insecticidal soap or neem oil. Be sure to spray the undersides of leaves as well.
By following these disease and pest management practices, you can ensure that your Eschscholzia lemmonii Greene ssp. kernensis (Munz) C. Clark plants stay healthy and free from harmful pests and diseases.
