In Gardens Everywhere, the Poppies Grow

I wrote my first gardening article as a tribute to Memorial Day and what the day represents. Sure, it is a time for barbeques, camping, and enjoying the long weekend, but it really is about so much more. In my desk drawer I have contained within all the treasures that have the most meaning to me. There is my son’s hospital band, my first Tube ticket from England, all the movie stubs from all those initial dates with my wife, an autograph from Barbara Windsor, and a few more odds and ends, but also my silk “Buddy Poppy.” As the tag suggests, I wear this proudly every Memorial Day.

My grandfather served in World War II, my dad was part of the naval blockade during the Cuban missile crisis, and several other family members have proudly served defending our nation. It is a blessing that we have a day set aside each year to remember those who have served and are no longer with us and those that continue to serve faithfully and selflessly. 

I am a sentimental gardener first and foremost. I am always seeking out plants that have special meanings or tell a story. Since 2008, I have been growing Flanders poppies everywhere I go. I save the seeds and am blessed with friends who have sent me seeds from the actual Flanders area. These seed heads I save every year are more valuable than gold to me. This year I planted some in my new garden in Colorado, and I almost had tears of joy when the seedlings emerged faithfully. I check on them every day and take note of their progress. Sometimes I check several times a day to see, as if by some miracle, there would be an inch or so of new growth. It will not be long before the imagined miracle becomes a reality. Soon these beautiful plants will be swaying in the breeze with their opulent red cups beckoning anyone to come and have a closer look. They truly are a very magical plant and one that belongs in every garden.

I say to you with the utmost sincerity that I wish you all a wonderful and blessed day today. I really hope you all take time out to find a spot in your garden to quietly reflect on the beauty of it all and to think of those that we have lost over the years serving our country.