Today In the Garden - ONCE UPON A CONEFLOWER

Help for A Languishing Orchid

Orchids used to be rare and expensive, but not anymore. Thanks to breeding breakthroughs, orchids suitable for home display are now plentiful and affordable year round.

Phalaenopsis or moth orchid is among the loveliest and easiest to grow. If you like orchids even a little, you’ve probably bought or received one as a gift. Their graceful blooms last for weeks. “Phals” look lovely in any setting, formal or informal, and they make the perfect housewarming or holiday gift.

Once the blooms are over though, most people keep their orchid around for a few more weeks, but eventually it gets tossed. Sound familiar? With patience and the right attention, most “phals” can be coaxed to rebloom at least once. So don’t give up on that recalcitrant orchid just yet!

This article is not by any means a thesis on orchid care. It’s a quick narrative designed to help you coax your orchid to bloom again, along with a handy “cheat sheet” for troubleshooting.

Feeding Bluebirds in Winter

A male bluebird enjoys a snack during a brutal cold snap

Bluebirds have been making a comeback in our neighborhood for some time now. While a few pairs are definitely around in spring and summer, I notice them mostly in winter. That’s because they band together in flocks for protection and to search for food. Their bright blue and russet colors are easy to spot against the dull gray of winter.

Unlike many birds, bluebirds are not seed eaters. They prefer insects supplemented with berries, both of which are often in short supply at this time of year. Because their diet is so limited they benefit from human help. This is especially true during brutal cold snaps. All birds need extra calories to keep warm, especially at night when the mercury plunges.

Erecting A Garden Gate

A single-door gate is fairly straightforward, but with a double-door gate, there is a bit more to it. Installing either style correctly is very doable if you know basic carpentry, have someone willing to lend a hand, and access to the right tools. A few tips help, too. Take the time to do it right the first time. You’ll end up with an attractive, serviceable gate that lasts for years.

Even if you have no interest in this project now, it pays to know how to install a level gate on uneven ground.