Dear Doc:

I get weak in the knees with admiration at the pictures of orchids in the Jamaica Observer. That yellow orchid you had two weeks ago — Sunday May 27 — I would love to know the name.

Diane

Dear Diane:

I’m happy that you are enjoying the pictures. The name of the much-enquired-about orchid is Dendrobium Aggregatum, which blooms in the spring.

Dear Doc:

I have orchids that have never bloomed and two that have bloomed once. I have given them the same treatment as the other sun vandas. The good thing about them is that the leaves are healthy looking. That is, except for the ones that have bloomed once. Those leaves are not as green, but is a beautiful yellow. I fertilise twice weekly. Looking forward to your advice. Thank you.

Norma C

Dear Norma C

You have said that the distinct difference between the vandas is that the non-bloomers’ leaves are green and the ones that have bloomed are not as green. There is your answer Norma, the ones that won’t bloom need more light. It is clear they have too much nitrogen. If you have shrubs in front of them I recommend thinning out the shrubs, or remove them to a place where they will be exposed to more sunlight. Fertilising twice per week is efficient for the orchids.