The Poppy Gathering

It is August and harvest time is upon us here in Northumberland. As the farmers prepare to bring in their crops we, in the Raganory garden, are gathering our summer spoils.

Poppy heads are my favourite dried flower and grow prolifically in my back garden, although I do have to confess an inherent fondness for teasel as well.  I never tire of gazing, photographing and using the poppy heads wherever I can.

The delicately coloured, paper frailty of the summer display belies their resilient nature, which leads to the permanent architectural, woody sculptures that adorn many an autumnal wreath and garland; truly a poppy paradox.     

There is no doubt that this humble plant, considered a weed by some, has historic significance and a reputation that stretches back to ancient civilizations.  The Romans regarded the poppy as sacred, while the Egyptians used it to flavour baked goods and in more modern times it remains our symbol of remembrance.

The childhood nostalgia of picking a glorious field poppy from a sea of golden grain instantly transports me to the halcyon days of yesteryear, where summers were warm and troubles were few.  This sentiment is captured beautifully in Laurie Lee’s, Cider with Rosie, it’s an evocative memoir that conveys a special affection and like the poppy, has a permanent place in my heart.

Our poppy harvest was facilitated by some uncharacteristically fine weather this summer and therefore, the poppy stems attained their sundried phase rather quicker than expected.  I like to leave the stems out for as long as possible, which reduce the chances of mildew forming and makes for a more robust end result.

With the preliminary stages of harvesting accomplished I begin to diligently deseed, clean and the remove any debris, once completed the stems will be placed in the conservatory for the final stages of drying prior to use.  I feel truly fortunate this year as the majority of the stems are measuring 120cm in length.

Poppy pods have quite a range of ornamental uses, I am sure we are all familiar with floral wreaths, garlands and table decorations, I have even seen them used as form of natural bunting.   Personally, I use them as decorative finish on my gifts instead of purchased bows, ever concerned with my green credentials.  I incorporate them into my photographs for added interest and use them for interior decoration for a sense of relaxed country elegance.

and soft lighting.

Aesthetically, nostalgically, symbolically or culinary, whatever the reason you can’t fail to love the poppy.

 Till next time.