Dear Doc:

I received a very pretty and unusual orchid as a Christmas gift — it is called a foxtail orchid. How do I care for it?

— Karen

Dear Karen:

The foxtail orchid, otherwise known as Rhynchostyllis is related to the strap-leaf Vanda. You can plant them either in hanging baskets or pots. I much prefer the baskets, as most orchids prefer their roots to be exposed. They need to be watered every day, unless they get water from rain. I fertilise mine three times per week and they thrive very well . Dear Doc: I recently bought some ground orchids, took them home and planted them in my garden , but somehow the leaves are getting burnt, although I was told they could take the sun.

What do you think I am doing wrong?

— Claudette

Dear Claudette:

The ground orchid, otherwise called Spathoglottis, does prefer the shadier parts of your garden. Whenever you purchase a plant that you’re not sure about, please simply rest it down in different areas to see its reaction before you plant it in a permanent spot.

Spathoglottis orchids also like compost a lot. If you put some around the roots every three months they will reward you with some tremendous green leaves and lots of blooms.

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