IN THE GARDEN

Poppies are everywhere, but why not try planting up some new varieties?

- with DIARMUID GAVIN

Oriental poppies have begun 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.

Though 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.

These poppies grow on stout, hairy stems that can sometimes flop under the weight of the blooms.

A little forward planning goes a long way: staking the stems early in the season provides much-needed support. There are also many stunning cultivars to explore.

'Royal Wedding', for instance, offers silky white petals with a dramatic purple blotch at the base, while the beloved 'Patty's Plum' displays maroon, ruffled blooms.