Anemone coronaria 'De Caen' – White & Red Poppy Anemone

Soak the dry corms in cool water for 3–4 hours before planting — they'll plump up noticeably and get off to a much stronger start. Plant 6–8 cm deep and 10 cm apart in fertile, well-drained soil, either in spring (April–May) for summer flowers or in September–October for an earlier bloom the following year. Autumn-planted corms will benefit from a thick mulch or fleece covering through the coldest Baltic winter nights. Anemones prefer sun or light shade and resent waterlogged ground — raised beds or containers are ideal in heavy soils. After flowering, let the foliage die back naturally so the corm can store energy for next year.

Harvest in the morning when the buds are just beginning to show colour but haven't fully opened — the blooms will continue to unfurl beautifully in the vase and last up to 10 days. Anemones famously "dance" in the vase, continuing to grow and turn towards the light even after cutting. The red-and-white combination makes striking arrangements on its own, or pairs dramatically with ranunculus, tulips, and soft foliage for spring bouquets.