The tranquility of Jack’s Hill in St Andrew was the perfect setting for this week’s Style Observer Gardening (SOG) visit. Special events caterer Valerie Thompson, graciously welcomed us into her sanctuary, adorned with an extensive collection of plants, flowers, and fruit trees. It’s impossible to feign indifference to the beauty of her vast collection of orchids including vandas, mokaras, and dendrobiums. It is not only orchids that have captured her fancy, but also desert flowers, water lilies, hibiscus and fruit trees which complement her expansive space.

A country girl at heart, Thompson’s passion for flora and fauna was passed down from her mother, who instilled in her a love for gardening while growing up in May Pen, Clarendon, and strengthened by annual trips to the Denbigh agricultural show.

“As a child, my mom would take me to the Denbigh agricultural shows, where the stunning floral displays captivated my heart and ignited my enthusiasm for gardening. Those experiences were truly unforgettable and laid the foundation for my lifelong love of plants and nature,” Thompson shared with SOG.

Thompson brought the comforts of Clarendon to Kingston, thanks to her talented green thumb. While she is proud of all the plants in her vast collection — there are over 50 vandas alone — it is her orchids that truly stand out, with their striking array of vibrant and unusual colours. Thompson is particularly fond of her phalaenopses, which are the main attraction.

“My favourite flowers are orchids, particularly the phalaenopses, also known as moth orchids. They are incredibly rewarding, with long-lasting blooms and a stunning variety of colours, all while requiring minimal care. As for plants, the aglaonema is one of my favourites. You can see them displayed all along my front porch,” Thompson explained. “They come in a range of colours, and the shape and structure of the leaves vary, making this plant species truly fascinating.”

Next week SOG continues its journey through Valerie Thompson’s garden.

Photographer: Karl Mclarty

Magenta phalaenopsis (Karl Mclarty)

White phalaenopsis aphrodite (Karl Mclarty)

Yellow mokara (Karl Mclarty)

Yellow and purple doritaenopsis (Karl Mclarty)

White mandevilla (Karl Mclarty)

Purple guarianthe skinneri (Karl Mclarty)

Red five-star orchid (Karl Mclarty)

Purple and white chrysanthemums (Karl Mclarty)

Pink and white desert roses (Karl Mclarty)

Purple schomburgkia (Karl Mclarty)