Dear Gardeners:

Who can forget that wonderfully magic scene in The Wizard of Oz where Dorothy and her companions run through a beautiful field of poppies on their way to the Emerald City? While not everyone has room in their garden for a field of Poppies quite like that, there is room in almost every garden for at least one or two of these bright beauties.

Oriental Poppies (Papaver orientalis) are characterized by big flowers in bold colors. They are sturdy and substantial plants that always make an impact. When viewed from a distance their outstanding colors and dancing form are remarkable. Up close, the silkiness of their petals and the intricate dark eyes at the center are mesmerizing.

Plant Oriental Poppies in fall so they can establish a good root system before winter. Do not worry about snow or freezing temperatures, they can handle the cold with ease. They need full sun and very good drainage. Too much moisture around the roots and crown of these plants will cause them to rot. When spring warms up the Poppy foliage will begin to grow and soon a fuzzy flower bud will appear. As the days go by the bud will get taller and eventually open up into the sumptuous flowers we love.

Happy Gardening,
The Bulb Lady®