What began as a spontaneous foray into gardening, two decades ago, has blossomed into a breathtaking sanctuary of orchid blooms.

Seeking to share their unique haven, business owners Larry and Marjorie Burgess extended an invitation to
Style Observer Gardening (SOG) to visit their home in upper St Andrew. Upon arrival, we were greeted by a spectacle that surpassed every expectation.

The expansive property boasts nearly 1,000 carefully tended orchids, which include varieties like vandas, mokaras, and dendrobiums, all in a kaleidoscope of colours. While the orchids are the pride and joy of the garden, there are more species of flowering plants like desert roses, red gingers and crown of thorns.

A love for gardening took root in Marjorie, who frequently received flowers as birthday presents. But their short lifespans left her distraught. She pondered how she could extend their lives. She decided to try her hand at gardening.

“I figured if I planted them myself, they would last much longer,” Majorie shared with SOG. In 2002, after moving to upper St Andrew from Hope Pastures, Marjorie finally had the opportunity and indeed the space to start her garden. She began with a single dendrobium — a birthday gift — and today, her collection has grown into a vibrant paradise cherised by her and hubby Larry. The orchids’ peculiar colours and varieties are what first drew them in.

“The variety and sheer beauty of the colourful blooms are what make orchids so special,” Larry explained. “They turn any space into a peaceful paradise.”

Join SO next week from the Burgesses’ orchid haven.

Noble dendrobium (Photo: Joseph Wellington)

Pink rock (Photo: Joseph Wellington)

Vanda (Photo: Joseph Wellington)

Mokara (Photo: Joseph Wellington)

Marjorie Burgess shares the frame with her ascocendas. (Photo: Joseph Wellington)

Larry Burgess waters his orchids.(Photo: Joseph Wellington)

Guaritonia Why Not Red (Photo: Joseph Wellington)