Dear Doc:

I really don't have a problem, just a suggestion for all the ladies out there like myself suffering from "Men-on-Pause". I find that gardening does a fantastic job of putting you in a wonderful frame of mind. Especially for those of us who don't exercise, looking after your orchids will do a world of good.

Barbara

Dear Barbara:

I must first thank you for your letter. I have heard quite a few menopausal women make similar confessions, and I must also tell you that a well known psychiatrist once told me that orchids have taken away a few of his patients in the past.

Dear Doc:

I have some phalenopsis and I have noticed that there are cracks running down the middle of the leaves. I have accused the gardener on more than one occasion of cutting the plant. Is it possible that something else could be wrong?

Dianthe

Dear Dianthe:

These things happen all the time. I pity the poor gardener being blamed for something he didn't do. Anyhow, the reason for the splitting in the middle of the leaf is irregular watering. You need to get a regular schedule for watering. That is, watering them at the same time and using the same quantity of water each time, and not just when you remember.

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.