Sowing Magic

Poppies in the Snow

Sow poppy seeds in February, on top of the snow, with bare soil below.

Sow a seed
Plant a vision
Dream of tomorrow

Hope, love, kindness
These are the seeds I plant today

The seeds disappear
Quietly
The sprouts appear

May they take root
May they grow
May they bloom

While we still have some cold days ahead, celebrate that spring is near and sprinkle some hope into your gardens! Today, I am sharing lots of nitty gritty details about sowing seeds. Let's dig in!

Planting poppies is a simple act that creates a magical moment for future us to enjoy. Grab a handful of seeds and scatter them right on top of the snow (my favorites are peony poppies A.K.A. bread poppies, or Papaver somniferum, if you want a tongue twister). Even though our energy may still be low from wintering, this is an accessible task that is in service of a bountiful growing season.

These poppies were a gift from Cori of The Mossy Tree in 2009. The seeds came from poppies that once grew on her grandparents’ farm. Over the years, I’ve shared them with friends so they continue to spread joy.

When I plant seeds, I always invite them into a deeper purpose. As I scatter the seeds into the earth, I say, “I plant hope. I plant love. I plant kindness.” In the summer when they bloom, I remember the intention and reflect on whether I am carrying these gifts into the world. 

As we encourage rest in the last few weeks of winter, tapping into hope can be a gentle transition into spring energy. 

Pompeii with a field of poppies—does this speak of healing?

Nuts & Bolts

Seeds that need cold stratification in order to germinate – like poppies – have a certain number of days needed to break dormancy. Here in Michigan, at the end of winter (late February/early March), there is still time to direct sow seeds that need 30 days of cold stratification. Keep in mind, this doesn’t apply to seeds that need a longer period of cold exposure. Let’s dig into this further for our paid subscribers below. You’re invited to come too!

Larkspur - another delightful seed to sow in the fall or winter.

Writing Prompts

Why do some seeds with a hard shell have to face this intense, cold process to break their protective barrier (almost like armor) in order to germinate? What stories do they have to share with us? 

What is happening outside (of you, or of your home) right now and how is that reflected inside of you? What is stirring beneath the surface?

Make sure to note where you plant your poppies - their seedlings are quite small and dainty.

Starting Seeds: A Deeper Dive

Seed starting tips, germination codes, growing zone info, and my top picks for what to sow in winter are up next!