Amazing orchid thrives on tea

Gerry and Valerie Zwart are understandably proud of their incredible orchid which seems to thrive on three cups of tea day.

Green thumbs Gerry and Valerie Zwart have plenty of experience in all things gardening, but even they are scratching their heads at the size and beauty of an amazing orchid they have grown on their back patio.

The former horticulturalists and Sunshine Coast Daily gardening columnists enjoy gazing at their wonderous creation as they share cups of tea. And, interestingly, the tea leaves they pour into the orchid seems to be the secret to its success.  

“I think those tea leaves, three times a day, every day of the year, with the tannins in it, I have a feeling it may be the secret to the growth,” said Valerie. “We thought we’ll pop that up on the table there and just see what happens. That was two years ago and since then it’s taken off.

Gerry and Valerie are residents of Nambour’s Sanctuary Park Retirement Community. Now in their 90s they remain active gardeners. 

“People often say when you’ve finished with your gardening you can come over and do mine,” Gerry said. “But the thing is, with gardening, you’re never finished. There’s always something to do.”

The orchid grows in three varieties, and the specific names are a mystery to the Zwarts.

Valerie suggested an orchid expert may  be able to help identify their showpiece. Please email editor@sunshinevalleygazette.com.au if you have any information and we can pass it on.