Orchids Bloom at Dearborn Market

The Deep Cut Orchid Society’s 16th Annual Orchid show took place at Dearborn Market in Holmdel from February 7th thru the 10th. This show is the highlight of the year for the Society and offers members and the public a chance to share their love of these unique flowers.

Matt Riesz of Matawan, a member of the Deep Cut Orchid Society and the club’s newsletter editor, explained the yearly event was judged by the American Orchid Society which provides a team of judges for the show. The flowers are judged in several categories.  “Merit” honors are awarded for Orchids that display extraordinary attributes. First, second, and third place ribbons were given to the entries and there was also an award for “Best in Show”

“We have between 1500 to 2000 entries and approximately 10 vendors,” said Riesz. “There are approximately 25,000 species and 300,000 hybrid orchids in the world.”

The event brought in hundreds of shoppers and orchid fans from all over to Dearborn’s greenhouse which was filled with thousands of Orchids of all colors, sizes and species. Many visitors had cameras and were taking photos of these unique flowers from every angle. Members of the Deep Cut Orchid Society were on hand to answer questions regarding best conditions to grow Orchids and what type would fit best in your home.

A section was set up for guest speakers to present seminars on proper care of Orchids. Several members of the Deep Cut Orchid Society gave talks on miniature orchids, best orchids for new growers, and growing orchids in the home. Matt Riesz gave a lecture on repotting Orchids. Several vendors gave talks on proper way to pot, trim roots, and divide plants. They fielded questions from the crowd and offered advice.

Tony Silva, from Silva Orchids in Neptune, gave a talk regarding growing mediums for Orchids. Susan Gange, from Stony Brook Orchids in Pennington, lectured about Phalaenopsis Culture.

The Deep Cut Orchid Society, a non-profit organization, is open to both new and experience Orchid enthusiasts.  Information is available at www.deepcutorchids.com