Tucked away in Jack’s Hill, St Andrew, the garden of retired teacher Joy Gordon serves as a sanctuary, offering vibrant colour and tranquillity. Walking up the driveway, you are instantly captivated by a stunning display of orchids in various types and hues including vandas, mokaras, and crooktowns. Alongside her impressive orchid collection, a variety of vegetables — broccoli, cauliflower, corn, and cucumbers — add to the garden’s charm.

Gordon’s garden is a labour of love. SO Gardening (SOG) was enchanted by the diverse orchids scattered throughout the backyard, as well as the bright, blooming hibiscuses. Gordon’s passion for plants and flowers has deep roots, stretching back to her childhood. While roses were her first love, it’s orchids that have captured her attention for the last few decades.

“As a young girl growing up, I always admired and had a special love for plants and flowers, roses being my favourite at the time,” Gordon reflects. “But as the years went on, I fell in love with orchids. I began to show great interest in acquiring young ones to grow my own at home.”

Gordon’s extensive experience with orchids has taught her invaluable lessons about their care, especially the importance of consistent attention. “Orchids require a lot of care,” she explains. “They need regular feeding, insect control, and frequent watering to thrive.”

SOG invites you to join us next week as we continue our journey through Joy Gordon’s garden.