Beyond Behnke’s Podcast
Last week I got a phone call from Behnke’s and my good friend, Kathy Jentz, asking if I would mind filling in for her weekly podcast! She had me sign up with some online recording thing. The next thing I knew, we started the podcast.
I have to admit I was somewhat nervous. I mean, what might Kathy be asking? Oh, heck, I hope I was not going to have to pronounce any Latin names of plants. But the whole interview process was just like having a phone conversation with a friend, only on a computer.
We chatted about my grandparents and my background. A little on the Beltsville property, employees, and of course, what I am up to with Beyond Behnke’s. I had to laugh when she started right off the bat asking me about my own gardening experiences. I mean, seriously, remember I am the Behnke that does not get out there and garden. I love to wander in our garden. I love to see other people’s gardens, and when push comes to shove, I will get out there and help my husband if needed. But things like weeding? Not so much. I think it all is because I used to weed for hours at my grandparents’ private gardens in Burtonsville. I have embraced the old saying, that a weed is just a misunderstood perennial.
If you have not already subscribed to Kathy’s Washington Gardener Magazine and have not listened to any of her podcasts (she has one each week), you really should check her out. So many excellent articles and her podcasts: she typically interviews some terrific gardeners. (they actually garden and can pronounce the Latin names).
I still miss Behnke’s, my go-to place does all things gardening, interior and exterior.
One of my favorite spots was Carol Allen’s “orchid Lady” clinic, with its (always) crowd of “outpatient” orchids needing Carol’s diagnosis and treatment – for orchids and owners alike.
My orchids have muddled along, but I think they and I need professional consultation.
Is there a “Beyond Behnke’s” or “Beyond Orchid Lady” who offers an in-person clinic – for masked and vaxxed, of course.
Penelope Farley
Takoma Park
PS: I tried one place, but that shop’s professed orchid expert advised so many things that were wildly different from Carol Allen’s advice I never went back.
Hi We all miss Behnke’s too. Carol is still doing orchid clinics and has just one more coming up before the end of the year.
Carol Allen’s Orchid Diagnostic and
Repotting Clinic: October 9 & 10th
These will be the last repotting clinics for 2021. We are not doing any repotting clinics inside due to the rise in COVID-19 cases. We want everyone to stay healthy!
We will be meeting outside on a lovely, big porch. If you are unvaccinated, please wear a mask. Regardless, keep socially distanced as a courtesy to others. If you are not feeling well, please stay home.
The time is from 9:30 am – 4:30 pm. Reservations will be made every half hour to ensure everyone’s safety. RSVP to lovemyorchidsdc@gmail.com for the address and to reserve your spot. Please limit to 4 orchids or other plants for repotting. Cash, checks or PayPal are accepted. The cost is generally $1/1″ of new pot diameter. There may be a small surcharge if the plant is needing extended care or division.
YES, other plants are welcome. Let me know if you have any plants with special needs or that are over 8″ so I can ensure I have what we will need. ~ Carol Allen
I hope you can make that or if not maybe email her at lovemyorchidsdc@gmail.com to see if she has any other suggestions.
Take care ,
Stephanie