Exciting Orchid Updates

The top two orchids are phalenopsis. The one on left is my newest plant, the one on right the largest. My newest orchid has tiny pink flowers which up until now I had only seen and enjoyed for the week I purchased it. My largest orchid has light purple flowers, and has bloomed 3 times in captivity and has created two offspring. I am excited to point out the new roots on both plants and light purple on the tips of their leaves which means they are doing quite well.  These orchids are growing in a peat moss wood chip blend.



The bottom two orchid are cattleya. The on the left is "blue", the one on right is "golden sunburst". Neither has bloomed in captivity yet. They both required extensive pruning of the root systems and leaves. If you notice brown powder around their bases, it is cinnamon. Cinnamon helps prevent root rot and pests.  I am overjoyed to point out the upward growing bullet shaped growths, which I believe will be new stems from which flowers will be capable of growing.  Also, the golden sunburst is growing new roots that are much greener and healthier than the mess of white roots it is poking through.  these orchids are growing in clear vases filled with 50/50 blend of water marbles, and clear glass marbles.

Brown sugar

Brown sugar can be a bit problematic because, when left unattended, the moist sugar can quickly transform into a rock-like state. This happens because the sugar dries out and the molasses used to keep it brown hardens and sticks it together like glue. There are several ways to avoid this problem.

1. Use a terra cotta sugar disk ($5) (or a .25 unglazed plant saucer), which will gradually release moisture into the sugar.  I use two plant saucers.
2. A slice of bread
3. Marshmallows. 3 or 4 regular size or several minis.
4. Keep in an air tight container.

Basil

Basil, an aromatic herb belonging to the mint family, is perhaps best known as the key ingredient in pesto, but it is basil’s medicinal properties, rather than its culinary value, that extend the herb’s uses far beyond pesto. Like other aromatic plants, basil contains essential oils and phytochemicals in the leaves, stem, flowers, roots and seeds that have biological activity in the body.
Throughout history, ancient cultures have used herbal remedies to prevent and treat illness and disease. Basil is just one example of the wide range of medicinal flora historically used in plant-based tinctures, compresses, syrups and ointments.  For centuries it has been used as a treatment for gastric, hepatic, respiratory and inflammatory disorders as well as a remedy for headache, fever, anxiety, convulsions, nausea and hypertension. Much research is being done on its ability to inhibit cancer.

Ravioli Bento

Cheese ravioli with Italian sausage, baby eggplant, green olives, and blue cheese.  Served with garlic bread and green beans.

Baked Brie

1/4 cup butter (no substitutes), softened

3 ounces cream cheese softened

3/4 cup all-purpose flour

1 round (8 ounces) Brie leave rind attached
1 egg beat with 1 teaspoon water

In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter, cream cheese and flour on low speed until mixture forms a ball. Divide in half and wrap each portion in plastic wrap; refrigerate for 30 minutes. On a lightly floured surface, roll out each portion into a 7-inch circle about 1/8 inch thick. Place one circle on an ungreased baking sheet. Place Brie on pastry and top with remaining pastry circle; pinch edges to seal. Brush egg wash over top and sides of pastry. Bake at 400° for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown. Let stand for 30 minutes before serving. Serve with crackers.

Party Cake

Copper Falls