Add some art to your home with floral design

Story by Sheila Paz + Photo by Ruthe Ritterbeck

Kim Epley, artistic director at The Studio at Farmer Blue — a 12-acre, cut-flower farm in Seabrook — captures movement and color in this month’s striking floral arrangement. Showcasing the beauty of a single cultivar, this design radiates energy and joy, much like the month of May. Delicate Icelandic poppies, with their rich hues, celebrate the start of the summer season.

Icelandic poppies

Why it works

Dynamic: The naturally curved stems create an illusion of movement, as if the flowers are dancing in the wind.

Crisp white vessel: A clean, modern vase provides a striking contrast to the vivid poppy tones, allowing the flowers to take center stage.

Vivid expression: The mix of fiery oranges and golden yellows, paired with crisp whites from the same floral family, enhances cohesion while offering striking visual depth.

Natural design: Using a flower frog to support the stems and hold them in place creates an airy, sculptural arrangement that feels as though it was just gathered from a meadow.

Care tips

Fresh water daily: Change the water daily to keep the flowers fresh and free from bacteria.

Burn, baby, burn: After cutting the stems every couple of days, burn the ends of the poppies. This prevents the milky sap from leaking and releasing excess moisture into the water.

Cool & shaded: Place the arrangement in a cool, shaded area away from direct sunlight and heat to prevent premature wilting.