Orchid Tip of the Month by Scot Mitamura

March is usually our Spring Show season, and many of our normal show orchids will be coming into bloom.  Unfortunately, for the second year in a row, we will not have our annual Spring Show.  I am hopeful that this will be our last canceled show, as I feel that by next year, we will certainly have control over this virus. 
 
Since the pandemic started, I have adopted a habit of preparing my orchids like a show is coming up.  That means making an effort to stake and groom my orchids prior to blooming.  Spraying my spikes/ buds to prevent flower thrip damage.  Inspecting them for insects, slugs/snails, mites, scales and weeds.  Staking them so that the flowers display well and the plants don't topple over.  Removing old leaf and flower sheaths, dead leaves and other debris, and trimming dying or damaged leaves.  Then, bring these beautiful orchids indoors to display and enjoy.   
 
If we can adopt this behavior throughout the year, we can stay on top of our orchid maintenance, instead of reacting to problem situations that occur because of a lack of attention.  What a difference this is making in the general health of my orchids!  Not only have I gotten a record number of flowers, but the size and quality of the flowers have greatly improved.  I feel that by simply putting in this extra time and effort, has made me a better orchid grower, plus it's been great therapy!
 
Instead of our Spring Show, the WOS board has planned another food drive that will be held on  March 20th.  Please visit us and bring food donations for this worthy event.  We will be giving out boxes of orchids again, even blooming ones!  I will be there too and I would be happy to answer any orchid related questions you may have.  So please stop by, it would be nice to see everyone.
 
Aloha, 
Scot