It is a pleasant surprise when something blossoming comes as promised. In this instance, the blossoming is the return of flowering orchids to the yard.
Over the years, I had contemplated the possibility of adding orchids to the backyard of the WaimeaBeachHouse. Our home is located on the island of Kauai in the state of Hawaii in the United States of America. That means many things can grow year-round.
Sun, Salt-Air and Ocean Breeze
However, the house is situated on the southwestern side of the island and on the beach fronting the Pacific Ocean a few yards west of the Waimea River. The implication is salt air, and ocean breezes are a everyday thing in the front yard. These factors limit what plants and trees can thrive. The backyard is much more protected, and therefore more suitable for a greater variety of plants and trees.
About a year ago, I discussed the possibility of orchids with a staff member at a local nursery. She suggested I plant orchids in the crooks of the trunks and branches of my plumeria and shower trees in the back yard. The staff member told me how to do it. In short, I planted the orchids in the crooks, wrapped them in burlap string and watered with light mists. She said the plant’s roots would eventually attach to the trees and flower annually. The staff member instructed me to not prune or clip dead leaves or stems after the flowers dropped.
Initial Success
The orchids not only survived after the planting, but thrived.
The orchids are mentioned in a Post I published in April of last year. The Post is located [here].
Capturing a Kauai Spring Morning in Full Bloom
Eventually the flowers dropped and the stems and leaves looked to be on a death spiral. I followed the advice provided and remained vigilant.
The Blossoming Return
About a month ago the orchid plants began to grow new stems and new bulbs on existing stems (that had appeared to be dead). A couple of the orchids look to be on the verge of having more flowers than last year.
The moral of this story… follow the advice provided by someone who can demonstrate (first-hand) they have successfully executed what is being recommended.
