Adventures in Botany

Flowers

flowers

Botany for Skeptics, Part 2: Easy Outdoor Gardening for People Who Think They Can’t Grow Anything

The Myth of the Black Thumb, Replanted Outdoors If you’ve ever looked at a lush garden and thought, “I could never do that,” you’re not alone. Many people assume that outdoor gardening is for experts, retirees with hours to spare, or people who somehow just “get” plants. But the truth is, you don’t need a […]

Botany for Skeptics, Part 2: Easy Outdoor Gardening for People Who Think They Can’t Grow Anything Read More »

Orchid show

Best Orchids for Beginners Who Think They Can’t Grow Orchids

Think You Can’t Grow Orchids? Think Again. If you’ve ever admired the exotic beauty of an orchid but thought, “I could never grow one of those,”—you’re not alone. Orchids have a reputation for being finicky, mysterious, and just plain difficult. But the truth is, not all orchids are high-maintenance divas. In fact, there are several

Best Orchids for Beginners Who Think They Can’t Grow Orchids Read More »

Miltoniopsis orchid

The Most Fragrant Orchids You Can Grow

When most people think of orchids, they imagine elegant blooms and exotic colors. But there’s a lesser-known treasure hidden among some orchid varieties: fragrance. That’s right—many orchids don’t just look amazing, they smell incredible, too. One of my favorite things about orchids is the variety of fragrance so many of them have. If you’ve ever

The Most Fragrant Orchids You Can Grow Read More »

Bulbophyllum orchid rare orchids

Rare and Unusual Orchids: A Look at a Few Fascinating Species

Introduction Orchids have long captivated the hearts of gardeners, collectors, and botanists alike with their stunning blooms, elegant forms, and exotic charm. While many people are familiar with popular varieties like Phalaenopsis or Dendrobium, the world of orchids is far more diverse and surprising than most realize. With over 25,000 species and counting, orchids make

Rare and Unusual Orchids: A Look at a Few Fascinating Species Read More »

apothecary garden

Grow Your Own Herbal Apothecary: Medicinal Plants for Home Use

Imagine stepping outside into your garden and gathering ingredients for your next cup of tea or a salve for a minor scrape—all grown by you. Creating a backyard (or lanai!) herbal apothecary is a rewarding way to reconnect with the healing power of plants. Medicinal herb gardening combines practical self-sufficiency with beauty, fragrance, and the

Grow Your Own Herbal Apothecary: Medicinal Plants for Home Use Read More »

Orchid Blooms: How to Get Your Orchids to Flower Again

Orchids are known for their stunning, long-lasting blooms, but every orchid lover eventually faces the same question: Why isn’t my orchid blooming again? While orchids don’t bloom continuously, the good news is that with proper care, they will rebloom. In this guide, we’ll explore why orchids stop blooming, how to encourage reblooming, and the best

Orchid Blooms: How to Get Your Orchids to Flower Again Read More »

edible landscaping

Edible Landscaping: How to Make Your Yard Beautiful AND Productive

Imagine stepping into your backyard and being greeted by lush greenery, vibrant flowers, and the scent of fresh herbs. Now, imagine that same beautiful landscape providing fresh fruits, vegetables, and herbs for your kitchen. That’s the magic of edible landscaping! Edible landscaping (also called Foodscaping) blends aesthetics and functionality, allowing you to create a visually

Edible Landscaping: How to Make Your Yard Beautiful AND Productive Read More »

Sensory garden in Germany

Sensory Gardens: Engaging All Five Senses

What is a Sensory Garden? A sensory garden is a carefully designed outdoor space that stimulates all five senses—sight, smell, touch, taste, and hearing. These gardens are meant to be immersive and therapeutic, making them perfect for everyone, from children to the elderly and those with sensory sensitivities. Sensory gardens are commonly found in schools,

Sensory Gardens: Engaging All Five Senses Read More »

KOS Show winner

Kona Orchid Society Show and Sale Recap

Every spring, orchid lovers (and those who hope to learn more about orchids) across the Big Island eagerly anticipate one of the most vibrant horticultural events of the year: the Kona Orchid Society’s bi-annual Show and Sale. Held at the Old Airport Pavilion, this event brings together passionate growers, skilled vendors, curious newcomers, and community

Kona Orchid Society Show and Sale Recap Read More »

Scroll to Top