Colour POP

POPPIES ARE EVERYWHERE, BUT WHY NOT TRY PLANTING UP SOME NEW VARIETIES?

- DIARMUID GAVIN

ORIENTAL poppies have started to bloom in the front garden, bringing with them a riot of colour and drama.

Their flamboyant, bright orange-red petals are eye-catching, each flower marked with a dark, almost black blotch at the base, encircling a regal-looking purple centre.

Although their display is short-lived typically lasting around 10 days their perennial nature makes them a reliable and rewarding addition to a mixed border, returning year after year.