By JESSICA HARDING
Staff Writer
HOLMDEL — The Deep Cut Orchid Society (DCOS) will hold its 20th annual orchid show, which will feature thousands of bright flowers to make the winter months more colorful.
The largest orchid exhibit in the tri-state area will run from Feb. 9-12 at the Dearborn Market off route 35. Hours will be 1-6 p.m. on Thursday, 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m. on Sunday.
During the Saturday and Sunday exhibits, experts will give free lectures on various species and tips for successfully growing orchids.
Saturday’s lectures will include “Phalenopsis Culture” at 10:30 a.m. by Susan Gange of Stony Brook Orchids; “Growing Orchids in the Home” at 2 p.m. by Jonathan Grimm of DCOS; and “Orchids for the Novice Grower” at 3:30 p.m. by Faye Arnett of DCOS.
Sunday’s lectures will offer “Repotting Orchids” at 10:30 a.m. by Bill Bodei of DCOS; “Advanced Orchids Culture” at 2 p.m. by Tony Silva of Silva Orchids; and “Miniature Orchids” at 3 p.m. by Peter Lytell of DCOS.
Orchid clubs in the mid-Atlantic area and vendors across the United States will be presenting several exhibits.
Certified American Orchid Society judges will be giving prizes to the best flowers and exhibits.
Admission to this event and parking are both free. Lunch will be served in Dearborn Market’s 11,000-square-foot garden center, where the orchids will be showcased.
DCOS President Deborah Bodei invites all to attend the exhibit. She believes it is a great way to get more upbeat about winter and show your loved ones you care by giving them an orchid.
“In the middle of winter, you walk into the exhibit and the intoxicating smell and an exotic tropical feel helps you deal with winter blues,” she said. “Paradise is also being surrounded by friendly people. Bill and I buy each other an orchid for Valentine’s Day.”
Show Chair Helen Kroh has been collecting orchids for as long as she can remember.
“When plant nurseries are closed for the winter and I need a green fix, I’m thankful for my orchids. They are the perfect houseplant. Many species bloom in the dead of winter,” she said.
If you would like a special tour during the event or more information on the DCOS, call Carol Abaya at 732-536-6215.
DCOS meets the second Tuesday of every month at Monmouth Reform Temple on Hance Avenue in Tinton Falls at 7:30 p.m.
Each meeting has a speaker, a show table and refreshments. Meetings are open to the public at no cost.
