Orchid show comes into bloom

WITH just weeks away from the extravagant Natal Orchid Society’s annual Autumn Orchid Show, orchid enthusiast Gordon Low has encouraged more people to grow the prestigious plant.

Low – a Durban North resident has been growing orchids for three decades. With roughly 500 different orchid species in the country, orchid addict Low says he was mesmerised by the variety of the plants shapes, scents and sizes, which he says is what motivated him to start growing them.

“Orchids come in all sizes, shapes and fragrances – exploring the different types is what made me interested in the plant,” he said.He has grown the internationally acclaimed Aerachnis Maggie-Ooi orchid. The 25-year plant beautifully caressing the fence on their front yard is the oldest in their collection.

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Low has urged all orchid lovers and keen gardeners to be part of the show scheduled for the third weekend of March. “At the show we have a beginner’s corner, where one can learn the basics of orchid gardening. There will also be plants on sale,” said Low.

The orchid enthusiast also gave tips to current growers on how to add to their current collections.

“I recommend buying one orchid in flower every month, so that you have them all year round, “he said.

The event is scheduled for Saturday, 17 March (10.15am – 4pm) and Sunday, 18 March (9am – 3pm) at Parkhill Bowling Club, Durban North.

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Potting demonstrations will be held on both days and a wide variety of orchids will be on sale for those who want to add to, or start, their own collection. Raffles will also be held, offering orchids as prizes.

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