The common poppy (Papaver rhoeas) became the symbol for Memorial Day during World War I. The honor came after wild meadows were torn to bits from mortar blasts and soil was turned for graves making the perfect growing conditions for the dormant poppy seeds. After the spring rains, the barren fields erupted in red blooms as far as the eye could see, most notably Flanders Fields made popular by the poem written by Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae. Now, all these years later, we wear a red poppy to honor those lost in war and military service. Thank you to our Armed Services and may we remember those who fought for our freedom.
The Urban Gardener 