Poppy (Papaver rhoeas)

The common poppy, scientifically known as Papaver rhoeas or the "field poppy," is a type of poppy that has a rich history and cultural significance. It is native to Europe, Asia, and North Africa and is widely recognized for its bright red flowers with black centers, which have become a symbol of remembrance for those who have lost their lives in war. This symbolism originated from the poppies that grew in the battlefields of World War I, as described in the poem "In Flanders Fields" by John McCrae.

Here's a brief history and growing guide for common poppies:

**History:**

- Ancient civilizations, such as the Sumerians, Egyptians, and Greeks, revered the poppy for its beauty and medicinal properties. The opium poppy (Papaver somniferum) was particularly valued for its production of opium, which was used as a painkiller and sleep aid.
- The common poppy's association with warfare and remembrance dates back to the Napoleonic Wars in the early 19th century, when large numbers of the flowers were observed growing in war-torn fields.
- The poppy became a prominent symbol of World War I after the Battle of Ypres in 1915, where the churned earth of the battlefields allowed poppy seeds to germinate and bloom, creating a vivid display of color amidst the destruction.
- The American Legion adopted the poppy as their official flower in 1920, and the Royal British Legion began selling poppies in 1921 as a way to raise funds for veterans and their families. The tradition of wearing poppies on Remembrance Day or Veterans Day continues to this day.

**How to Grow Common Poppies from Seed:**

1. **Timing:** Common poppies are annuals, and their seeds are best sown directly into the garden in the fall or early spring, when temperatures are cool and moisture is plentiful.

2. **Soil Preparation:** Choose a sunny location with well-draining soil. Poppies prefer a soil pH between 6.0 and 7.0. If necessary, amend the soil with compost or a balanced fertilizer to improve its quality.

3. **Sowing Seeds:** Scatter the poppy seeds thinly over the prepared soil, as they need light to germinate. You can mix the seeds with sand to make it easier to distribute them evenly. Press the seeds lightly into the soil and do not cover them with mulch or soil, as they require light to sprout.

4. **Watering:** Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged until the seeds germinate, which typically takes about 10-21 days. Once the seedlings emerge, reduce watering to once or twice a week, depending on weather conditions.

5. **Thinning:** If the seedlings grow too close together, thin them out to allow for better air circulation and prevent overcrowding. A spacing of about 8-12 inches between plants is ideal.

6. **Care:** Common poppies are relatively low maintenance. They do not require much fertilization, and it's best to avoid high nitrogen fertilizers, as they can lead to more foliage and fewer flowers. Deadheading spent blooms can encourage additional flowering.

7. **Flowering:** Common poppies typically bloom from late spring to early summer, providing a beautiful display of red, pink, or white flowers. Each flower lasts for only a day or two, but new buds will continue to open, ensuring a long season of blooms.

8. **Propagation:** After flowering, the plants will produce seed pods. Allow the pods to dry on the plant, then collect the seeds for the following year's planting.

Remember, poppies are self-seeding and may return the next year if allowed to go to seed. However, they do not always come back true to form, so you may end up with a mix of different poppy varieties. If you want to control their spread, remove the seed pods before they open and spread their seeds.

Common poppies are easy to grow and add a lovely pop of color to gardens, meadows, and other naturalized areas. Their history and symbolism make them a meaningful and beautiful addition to any outdoor space.

Summary.

The common poppy, scientifically known as Papaver rhoeas or the "field poppy," has a rich history and cultural significance. It is native to Europe, Asia, and North Africa and is widely recognized for its bright red flowers with black centres, which have become a symbol of remembrance for those who have lost their lives in war.

Common poppies are annuals, and their seeds are best sown directly into the garden in the Autumn or early Spring, when temperatures are cool, and moisture is plentiful. Choose a sunny location with well-draining soil. Scatter the poppy seeds thinly over the prepared soil, as they need light to germinate. You can mix the seeds with sand to make it easier to distribute them evenly. After flowering they can be left to self-seed and usually do so freely.