Style Observer Gardening (SOG) revisits the orchid paradise of Larry and Marjorie Burgess, whose two-decade gardening journey has cultivated a breathtaking symphony of blooms and a rich tapestry of flora.

For Marjorie, the garden is a sacred space, a source of divine serenity. “Every time I am around my orchids it brings me peace and purpose. I see God’s love and care whenever I look at them,” she explains.

Maintaining an oasis of this scale is no small feat. Marjorie, however, finds the work rewarding, noting that while orchids are sturdy, they are also delicate and require constant attention. The daily care routine is a labour of love that ensures each plant thrives. Marjorie’s advice for aspiring orchid gardeners is centred on three key principles: Patience, meticulous attention to each plant’s needs, and a deep understanding of the specific requirements for the varieties they like.

“You have to pay careful attention to them to know what they need. For best results, I recommend that you water them early in the mornings,” Marjorie advises. “Orchids require different forms of care. So you must know the types of orchids that you have and what their specific needs are.”

Mokara (Photo: Joseph Wellington)

Renanthera (Photo: Joseph Wellington)

Vanda (Photo: Joseph Wellington)

Mokara (Photo: Joseph Wellington)

Cooktown (Photo: Joseph Wellington)

Vanda coerulea (Photo: Joseph Wellington)

Mandevilla (Photo: Joseph Wellington)

Floribunda rose (Photo: Joseph Wellington)

Louis de Funès hybrid tea rose (Photo: Joseph Wellington)

Larry and Marjorie Burgess showcase their collection of orchids. (Photo: Joseph Wellington)

Antler orchid (Photo: Joseph Wellington)