Thanks George! I think I'm in one zone N of you. (Leon County, East/Central TX) We're considered 8'ish' or top of 9 but borderline all the way around. Pineywoods just to the East of us, and Waco iron ore to the West we're in a kind of weather pocket, a 'zone' all our own. I'll try planting poppy seed during the next 2 months so hopefully I'll get some to sprout in the spring. I think I've been planting them too late (the season I expect them to grow in), and yes, I've been lightly covering them with the soil. Never thought about them being like lettuce seed. Will try all your hints! Martha, (Texas) Visit our Paso Fino Club: www.TxPFHA.org Visit our farm:www.geocities.com/Heartland/Fields/5505/index.html