August 4th, 2025
As a gardener, I’m always excited to see what’s blooming, whether it’s in my own backyard or in the gardens of people I care about. And this week, I’ve been absolutely captivated by my mom’s orchid. She has a Phalaenopsis orchid that is currently putting on a truly spectacular show, boasting over 50 individual blooms!
It’s not just the sheer number of flowers that’s impressive, but the vibrant color and the delicate structure of each bloom. Seeing them all unfurled and reaching towards the light is a testament to the care and patience my mom invests in her plants. She’s always had a green thumb, but this orchid’s performance this year is next level.
Phalaenopsis orchids, often called Moth Orchids, are known for their long-lasting blooms, which can persist for months under the right conditions. My mom has managed to create those conditions perfectly. The key, she’s told me, is a balance of indirect light, consistent watering (allowing the potting medium to dry out slightly between waterings), and good air circulation. She also swears by a diluted orchid fertilizer during the growing season, which likely contributes to this incredible display.
It’s easy to get lost in the beauty of such a flourishing plant. The way the flowers cluster together, creating a cascade of color, is something special. It reminds me that even in the smaller, more controlled environments of houseplants, nature can produce moments of pure magic.
And it’s not just her showstopper orchid that’s in bloom. Several of my own garden favorites are also putting on a great show right now. My ‘Cafe au Lait’ dahlias, which I’ve written about before, are opening up their large, dinner-plate-sized blooms. The soft, creamy petals are just gorgeous. I’m also seeing the first few blooms on my gladiolas, adding those tall spikes of color to the flower beds. It’s a wonderful time of year to be a gardener, with so much life and color bursting forth.
Seeing my mom’s orchid thrive like this is inspiring. It’s a beautiful reminder of the rewards of consistent care and attention. It also makes me appreciate the simple joy of watching something grow and flourish, whether it’s a massive orchid on a windowsill or a tomato plant in the backyard. Nature always finds a way to impress!
Happy gardening!