Let’s talk about poppy preparations! These cute flowers are so cool when they’re still closed but are a real treat once they open up. If you want to keep your poppies fresh and pretty, you’re at the right place for tips & tricks! We researched the best poppy tips & tricks and spoke with our trusted growers so we can provide you with the best poppy-hacks. For example, did you know that the grower burns the ends of the stem close? Read on and find out why they do this!
The origin and background of poppy flowers
Before we dive into how to condition poppies, let’s talk about their origin. Their name 'Icelandic poppy' is a bit misleading, as it suggests that these poppies are native to Iceland. They actually come from the colder regions of Asia and Europe, particularly in the Arctic regions of northern Russia, Scandinavia, and other parts of eastern and central Asia. Poppies are also known under their Latin and botanical name Papaver.
One of the areas you’ll find poppies in, is Italy. Italy's weather and soil are great for growing lots of different flowers, poppies included. The gentle Mediterranean weather, with its warm, dry summers and cool, rainy winters, makes the perfect place for growing poppies.
Poppies are not only cool, beautiful, and versatile, but they’re also great for nature. Their flowers attract bees, butterflies, and birds, which helps keep the area’s nature healthy and varied!
Symbolism and meaning of the poppy flower
Poppies are like little signs of memory, peace, and hope. They are tough flowers that can grow even in hard spots, teaching us to stay strong and keep looking forward. Their lovely colours and shapes make them a symbol of beauty and doing well. Each colour of poppy also has its own meaning: red poppies are for remembering, white poppies for peace, and yellow poppies for wishes of wealth and success.
“Let’s talk about poppy preparations! “
Step-by-step guide to conditioning poppies
But, enough about the origin and meaning behind the poppy flower, let’s discuss how to prepare poppies to make them last as long as possible! Like we told you in the beginning, the grower burns the ends of the stems. They do this so the ending of the stem closes, this way the juices won’t come out and the vase life lasts longer. Isn’t that an amazing trick?!
Step one – Cut your poppies
The first step is to cut your poppies. Use clean and sharp scissors to cut an inch of the stems at a 45-degree angle. This increases the surface area for water uptake and removes any air bubbles that might have formed, ensuring the stems can draw up water effectively.
A tip to open poppies easier and faster: peel the green layer of the poppy pods. When you peel the outer layer from the flower, you’ll reveal the petals that can now shine!
Step two – Seal the stems
The grower burns the endings of the poppy stems before shipping to keep your poppies as fresh as possible. So, after you’ve cut your poppies, you must do the same to keep the freshness. Quickly sear the cut end of the stems with a flame for just a few seconds. This helps to seal the stem and prevents the juice from leaking out, which can reduce water absorption and shorten the vase life.
Step three – Place them in water with flower food
After searing your poppies, immediately place the stems in a clean vase filled with fresh, cool water. And don’t forget to add flower food for nutrients, so your flowers can hydrate right away.
Step four – Cool, dark and alone
It might not sound very cozy but put the flowers in a cool and dark place for at least a few hours before arranging them. This last step is crucial as it allows the stems to fill up with water and helps the blooms to open fully. Keep poppies away from fruit and vegetables, as these emit ethylene gas, which can cause flowers to age prematurely. Always refresh the water every two days!
If you follow the steps above, you will have the prettiest and freshest poppies in the game ;) Ready to create some stunning arrangements with fresh poppy flowers? Explore our selection of wholesale poppies and order yours now!