Dear Doc:

I have some shrubs in my orchid bed that I can't get rid of. As fast as I pluck them out, they grow and spread, especially when it rains. What can I do?

Donna-Mae

Dear Donna-Mae:

It seems as if seeds are being generated from a tree nearby or above. This is one of the reasons why one should spend time in the garden. Maintain your orchid bed just as you would any other garden.

Dear Doc:

How long should I keep blooming dendrobiums and phalaenopsis inside? I want to enjoy them outdoors too.

Marjorie R

Dear Marjorie R:

The Phalaenopsis blooms actually last much longer in cool areas. If you can find a cool, well-lit place indoors, both should last much longer than outdoors. Remember to point the spike towards wherever the sunlight enters from or else your orchid buds will start to drop prematurely. In other words, too drastic a shift in temperature before the buds are mature will cause them to drop.

Betty Ashley is an avid orchid enthusiast who has spent decades successfully cultivating orchids for herself, as well as for orchid lovers across the island, earning herself the title 'Orchid Doc'. Send your orchid questions and/or concerns to: bettymay@flowja.com.