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California Poppy - Orange
The California Poppy Orange, 'Eschscholzia californica', is the state flower of California. When you see this flower planted in mass, you realize why it is their state flower. The California Poppy is a perennial that is usually grown as an annual. In zones 7-11, though, the foliage often overwinters. The orange, silky, saucer shaped 2 to 3 inch flowers have 4 delicate paper-like petals. This Poppy blooms best in the cool weather of spring. This packet covers 180 square feet. The California Orange Poppy needs full sun. On cloudy days or in the shade, the blooms will close. The Orange Poppy will grow in almost any soil that is well drained. Pinching off spent flowers increases the bloom period. In cold climates, plant as soon as the ground can be worked. In warm climates seed in fall for impressive spring color. The Poppy Orange can be used as a cut flower, wildflower plantings, and for soil erosion control. ... find out more
Bitter Melon The Bitter Melon Short Fu Qwa, Foo-Gwa, 'Momordica charantia', is widely used in the Orient. You will quickly enjoy its bitter flavor. It is refreshing, cooling, and a compliment to beef, poultry, and seafood. The Bitter Melon is also called a Balsam Pear. The bitter flavor of bitter melon is due to quinine, and is a taste that is quickly acquired by adults and kids. This soft flavor softens as it absorbs other flavors. It is used in stir-fry, stews, steamed, braised, or curried. When mature, the melons are very showy, which is why it is commonly used as an ornamental. Plant in the spring, 1 to 2 weeks after the last frost when soil temperatures are warm. The Bitter Melon prefers light and well drained soil. Harvest the fruit when they are no longer than 6 inches and are still light green in color. |
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