Your poppies will arrive in bud form which provides protection during delivery and helps increase the vase life.
Give each stem a fresh 45 degree angled cut, about an inch, to help them replenish quickly. Place them in cool water right away so the ycan get a nice drink. Hydrate the poppies until you start to see the outer layer separate from the base.
Wait until the sepal (green, bristly covering) is cracked open and you can see the petals inside. Carefully tear the sepal beginning at the bottom of the bud and lift slowly towards the top. The outer layer can be tough, and the petals underneath are very delicate, so take your time.
*Quick note: Your poppies might lose their sepal all on their own and no peeling will be needed.
Once their petals are free, the blooms will begin to unfurl naturally. Let them do their thing! If you’re in a rush, a gentle puff of air into the center of the bloom can give them a little nudge.
Poppy stems contain a milky sap that can block water absorption. Making a fresh cut and holding the cut end to a flame for 10-30 seconds helps stop sap flow, potentially extending vase life.
Tag @TheBouqsCo on Instagram to show off your unique stems!
