Wen-Chia Tsai Parker

Teacher, Author, Illustrator, Designer and Architect


Repotting Orchids, Friendship, Live, Laugh Grow Get your hands dirty! March 2025

Orchids have captivated human imagination for millennia, with their history intertwined with cultural symbolism and scientific fascination. Originating in Eurasia during the late Cretaceous period (66–100 million years ago)7, they were revered in ancient China as symbols of integrity and humility3, while Greeks associated their root structures with virility1. The Victorian era ignited “orchidmania,” driven by colonial expeditions to collect exotic species like Cattleya labiata, which became a status symbol14. Their beauty lies in intricate floral adaptations: mirror-symmetrical blooms that twist 180° during development210, diverse sizes (from millimeters to 20 cm)2, and long-lasting displays that evolve through growth cycles5. With nearly 30,000 species, orchids blend elegance and resilience, embodying both timeless allure and evolutionary ingenuity910.

I love getting orchids as gifts and love even more growing them and enjoying them year after year for their long lasting blooms and ornate delicate flowers.  Staci and Wenchia repot two lovely orchids today as symbols of our friendship and growth and happy days to come for the Year of the Snake!


Succulent Gardening and Making Holiday Gifts to Share and up-cycle your containers

Gardening with succulents in Southern California is not only visually stunning but also remarkably easy, making it a popular choice for both indoor and outdoor planters. These resilient plants thrive in the region’s warm climate, requiring minimal maintenance while adding vibrant colors and unique textures to any garden. Propagation is particularly simple; gardeners can easily multiply their succulent collection by using cuttings or leaves. By following straightforward steps, direct planting them in well-draining soil, one can watch new roots develop and transform into beautiful new plants. This process is not only cost-effective but also rewarding, as it allows enthusiasts to create lush arrangements that reflect their personal style and creativity. Have fun collecting succulents creating beautiful arrangements you can use as gifts for friends and family this holiday season!  Also you can repurpose and upcycle pots, cups, bowls and all sorts of containers including coconut shells! Check out my video and have fun gardening!
https://youtu.be/_h-uurqJBUw?si=_GVS6yv3arBbv2TT


Reboot my Youtube channel @wenchiat & Gardening with Wenchia

Join Wenchia for gardening and Fall Cleanup in my  Mar Vista home.  As the vibrant colors of autumn settle into Mar Vista, California, it’s time to prepare your garden for the cooler months ahead. Fall cleanup is not just about tidying up; it’s an essential practice that sets the stage for a thriving garden in the spring. Watch me route around with my favorite tools in fall gardening and composting.

Cleaning up your garden allows for better air circulation and sunlight penetration, promoting healthier soil.  A tidy garden enhances the beauty of your outdoor space during the fall and winter months.

Fallen leaves can be transformed into mulch rather than just raked away. Mulching not only clears your yard but also enriches the soil with nutrients as it decomposes. This practice suppresses weed growth and protects the soil from erosion.

Trim back any dead or diseased branches from trees and shrubs. This reduces the risk of branches breaking under snow or rain, which can lead to further debris in your garden.

Utilize fallen leaves, grass clippings, and other organic waste by adding them to your compost pile. Composting is an eco-friendly way to recycle garden waste into nutrient-rich soil amendments for next year’s planting season.

Engaging in fall cleanup and composting not only prepares your garden for winter but also contributes to a healthier environment. You can ensure that your garden remains vibrant and ready to flourish when spring arrives. Happy gardening!

Here’s my other videos below Join and Subscribe to my Youtube Channel Please ;-):

/https://www.youtube.com/@wenchiat

https://wenchia.com/
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https://treesteps.org/
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