The one sure way to prevent that sudden let-down feeling in the hardy border after the last tulips fade is to have Oriental poppies coming on to take their place. There are of course, the tall bearded iris in many lovely colors; but none which carry on the dramatic impact of the tulips, especially in beds or borders seen from a distance.
But the Oriental poppies can do this job. As I write, I can see a group of Crimson Pompon, earliest of this group, which has already replaced the dying flame of a group of Bloodstone tulips that formerly held the spotlight. And around it are the fat gray-green buds of a dozen other varieties ready to carry on, and some of them already showing color.
Oriental poppies ordered and planted now – they are among the very few perennials which can be planted during August and early September – will make a good showing next spring and increase in size and number of blooms for many years before they require dividing and replanting.
The dormant roots can be shipped safely even in hot weather and once planted – about 3 inches deep – require no further care; but they should be carefully marked, for out of sight is often out of mind and they may be injured in fall or early spring garden operations.
Give them a deep watering as soon as growth starts and mulch the first winter with dry leaves or straw. Poppies like full sun and well-drained soil. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers. Tall growing (up to 3-1/2 feet), large-flowered varieties may require some support if straight stemmed flowers are wanted. Blooms with crooked stems, however, are prized by flower arrangers.
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