u/IVIaliferous

Never thought I’d turn into a crazy plant lady, but here we are. This is I-HSIN Sesame, a Phalaenopsis. I’m up to 27 orchids and many of them are blooming…

18 Phalaenopsis, 3 Cattleya, 2 Paphiopedilum, 2 Oncidium, 1 Jewel, 1 Vanda

Orchids are so tough and resilient. In the wrong environment / in the wrong care they struggle while doing whatever they can to adapt and survive. With the right care and right environment, they grow and thrive. Orchids are also beautiful, producing gorgeous flowers out of nothing. They can lose their entire root system but still come back from that brink, better than ever. Orchids remind me of the trans experience.

Taking care of orchids has been very therapeutic, as some fallouts of transitioning later in life still haunt me. But I try to see the beauty in every situation now… Something transitioning has taught me. The world may seem rotten sometimes, but always find time to nurture the things you love. Cuz life is short but sweet for certain.

The Delight has always been on my wish list, today my fiancée surprised me with this lil one. I’ve never had a Vanda before but watched plenty of care videos… High light, plenty of water w/ airflow, and good temps - all which I can provide. Excited to watch her grow and eventually bloom!

She came in a tiny basket but transferred her to vase culture without it. Vase culture is not for everyone (certainly not for beginner orchid growers either) but I enjoy it in small quantities in my collection. Certainly a unique way of growing and displaying. Little nervous how the acclimation will go with this sentimental gift, but it was mostly bare root already so hopefully won’t be too rough of a transition!

Pic 2 is what the flowers should look like, my favorite shade of purple. 😊