Among the Hawaiian Islands, Kauai is the last refuge for many of the state’s endangered native flora and fauna. They face threats from invasive species, habitat loss, pollution, and climate change. With human help, however, some are recovering and rebounding. During our recent visit, it was a joy to see that many people on the […]
As today’s equinox brings spring to Northern California, we’re happy to be done with our long drought. Lots of strong storms over the winter have filled reservoirs and piled up the Sierra snowpack, but they have also caused some damage. We’ve had some minor problems in our garden, but most of the bruises on my […]
The Pacific Orchid and Garden Expo reliably highlights the best of the orchid world. Blooms abound, from the latest hybrids to obscure species. Dave and I are so busy with our cameras, but we are often stopped in our tracks by the stunning displays. Individual flowers and artful arrangements compete for attention from every direction. […]
There’s much more to Kauai’s wondrous McBryde Garden than its orchids. Here are some more photos from our recent visit, starting with Dave’s incredible picture of two rare Hawaiian Moorhens looking for lunch in a stream. We were told that they are normally very shy birds, but these two didn’t seem to mind us snapping […]
The Pacific Orchid and Garden Exposition was a great success this past weekend. After many years at Fort Mason, the event returned to its old home in Golden Gate Park’s Hall of Flowers. Even as visitors managed tougher parking and big crowds, it was still obvious that the flowers were just as magical as previous […]
McBryde Garden on the island of Kauai is one of Hawaii’s extraordinary places. Set in a verdant valley, it’s part of the National Tropical Botanical Garden, with a mission of conservation and research, especially for Hawaii’s endangered native flora. Dave and I were lucky enough to visit recently and enjoy its amazing sights. The garden […]
Valentine’s Day is often full of romantic surprises, including beautiful orchids. If you’ve received an orchid gift, check the basic care tips below to keep your flowers happy. Identify your orchid – Different types of orchids have different care needs. You usually don’t need to figure out the exact name, only a general ID. Phals, […]
The San Francisco Orchid Society’s big yearly show has a new name and a new location for 2017. The Pacific Orchid and Garden Exposition (formerly the Pacific Orchid Exposition) happens Friday, February 24th – Sunday, February 26th. This year’s event is moving from Fort Mason to the Hall of Flowers in Golden Gate Park, near […]
Moth Orchids, or Phals, always put on an impressive show. They’ve become essential for Valentine’s Day and the Lunar New Year. A steady stream of new hybrid colors and patterns continually adds to the list of Phal choices. Best of all, modern hybrids are grown for both beauty and toughness. They are as easy to […]
For years, I’ve had great success growing a Giant Hyacinth Orchid outdoors. With long, graceful leaves, it’s an elegant plant even when not in flower. But certainly, it’s at its best when it bursts into bloom. Tall stalks emerge, each boasting dozens of small, purple flowers. Every winter, this orchid reliably puts on a great […]
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