The orchid family is one of the most diverse and widespread plants on earth. There are between 21,000 – 26,000 accepted species found in 880 genera. That is more than twice the number of bird species and almost four times the amount of mammal species on earth. Orchids are colorful and aromatic and have been an object of obsession of horticulturists for hundreds of years. Orchids are found on every continent except Antarctica, but mostly in the tropics of Asia, South America and Central America.
People who attended the Fascination of Orchids Show & Sale at South Coast Plaza Village were able to see, and buy, many different types of orchids without having to travel to the tropics or other exotic locales. The show featured a “Plant Hotel” where award-winning orchids were on display, prizes, vendors and general orchid information.
There were hundreds of different types of orchids on display. Popular varieties of orchids are Cymbidium, found mainly on the West Coast of the United States and other cool-summer areas with no severe frosts. Dendrobium, the most diverse type of orchid genus with flowers that can last one day or many weeks. Phalaenopsis, or the moth orchid, which is the best orchid for growing indoors and a favorite among greenhouse growers. Paphiopedilum, which originate in the jungles of the Far East including Indonesia. Vanda, which are grown easily in warm climates and originate in tropical Asia.
The show featured seminars and workshops that appealed to every level of orchid enthusiast. The workshops ranged from “Orchids 101” with tips and advice on how to grow several types of orchids to more advanced demonstrations like “Cymbidium Orchids” where long time local growers shared advanced methods to help Cymbidiums flourish.
For show visitors who don’t have a greenhouse, or a garden, and want to grow orchids outdoors, the Master Gardeners of Orange County were eager to help people learn about community gardens in their city. The Master Gardeners’ mission is to extend research-based, scientifically accurate information to the public about home horticulture and pest management. The Master Gardeners of Orange County are part of the University of California Cooperative Extension and have headquarters at the Orange County Fair and Event Center. The Master Gardeners are responsible for the upkeep of the Heritage Museum Gardens in Santa Ana. They have also created a hotline and email address to answer any questions people may have about gardening.
If you missed the Fascination of Orchids Show & Sale, there is an Orchid Auction on Sunday, October 14, 2012 at 1 p.m. at the Placentia Library. Although location is pending, next year’s show is scheduled to be September 28-29. Orchids are truly a fascinating flower that are equally beautiful and diverse.
Whether you are an orchid expert, or just curious, the Fascination of Orchids Show & Sale allows visitors to experience some of nature’s most alluring and visually striking plant species.
