Shirley poppies, also known as Papaver rhoeas, are a beautiful addition to any garden or flower arrangement. They are often sought after for their vibrant colors and delicate petals. One common question that arises when it comes to growing Shirley poppies is whether or not they are a cut and come again flower.
The term “cut and come again” refers to plants that can be cut back and will continue to produce more flowers throughout the growing season. Unfortunately, Shirley poppies are not typically considered a true cut and come again flower. When the flowers of Shirley poppies are cut, they do not regrow from the same stem. Instead, the plant will produce new flowers from side shoots or new growth.
However, this doesn’t mean that Shirley poppies are not suitable for cutting and using in flower arrangements. In fact, they can still make excellent cut flowers if harvested at the right time. It is best to cut the poppies just as the buds begin to open. This will ensure that the flowers are at their peak and will continue to open fully once placed in water.
To extend the vase life of your cut Shirley poppies, it is important to follow a few simple steps. First, make sure to use a clean vase and fill it with fresh water. Remove any leaves that will be submerged in the water to prevent bacterial growth. Additionally, adding a floral preservative to the water can help to prolong the life of the flowers.
Another factor to consider when growing Shirley poppies is whether or not you want them to self-sow for next season’s bloom. If you do want your poppies to self-sow, it is important to allow the spent flowers to form seed pods. These pods will eventually drop their seeds, which will then germinate and grow into new plants the following year. This natural self-sowing process can create a beautiful display of poppies without much effort on your part.
However, if you do not want your Shirley poppies to self-sow, it is important to remove the spent flowers before they have a chance to form seed pods. This can be done by simply snipping off the fading flowers with clean pruners or scissors. By removing the spent flowers, you can prevent the poppies from spreading and taking over your garden.
While Shirley poppies may not be considered a true cut and come again flower, they can still be enjoyed as cut flowers if harvested at the right time. By cutting the poppies just as the buds begin to open, you can ensure that they will continue to open fully once placed in water. Additionally, allowing the spent flowers to form seed pods can allow the poppies to self-sow for next season’s bloom, if desired. Shirley poppies are a versatile and beautiful addition to any garden or flower arrangement.
