The “Cold Sophie” belongs to a group of saints who have their memorial days mid-May. The so-called Ice Saints Pankratius, Servatius, Bonifatius, and Sophia. (Cold Sophie May 15th)
Background: from the beginning of May the temperatures in Central Europe are mostly already quite high (yesterday we have been nearly in the 30°C). These high temperatures are repeatedly interrupted by weather conditions, where cold polar air flows to Central Europe, causing ground frost. For farmers and gardeners it was/is important to know as ground frost can destroy a crop. There is a saying "never plant before Cold Sophie".
In the picture you see common poppy (Papaver Rhoeas) struggling with the cold temperatures and heavy rain.
