Storage
The clean, dry seed should be kept in sealed glassine packets or small paper (not plastic) envelopes, labelled with the plant name, source and date. If not for immediate use, the seed can be stored for some time in an airtight plastic container placed in a fridge.
Fresh seed germinates better than old seed but, as with other genera, the ‘shelf-life’ of different species can vary quite considerably. For example, seed of Meconopsis punicea is best sown immediately, as seeds sown in spring may not germinate until the following year. Even immature ‘green’ seeds of this species have been known to germinate within a couple of months. Seed of others, such as Meconopsis ‘Lingholm’ may remain viable for more than 5 years, but with a reduced percentage germination.