An intoxicating mix of colour and smell at Spring Orchid spectacular
By Carol Mansfield
THE Glasshouse Orchid Society celebrates its Spring Orchid Spectacular September 20-21. The youngest member of the society, Caitlin Smith spoke with GC&M News to explain why she loves orchids. Caitlin, who joined when she was only nine years old, said it was originally her mum and grandmother who sparked her initial interest in orchids.
“My Grandmother and mum have always had orchids,” Caitlin explained. “I love helping re-pot Nan’s orchids and look after them. I enjoy seeing the really, small flowers, and the different shapes of the plants. “I love that this is something I can do with my mum. I enjoy going on bus trips and going to shows.”
Caitlin said there was a lot she loved about being a part of the Orchid Society, and she would definitely encourage younger members to become involved in discovering more about orchids which she said could be a rewarding and challenging hobby.
“I learn heaps listening to other growers and enjoy the challenge to grow a good plant that will give me wonderful flowers, she said. “I really hope that one day I can bench at a show for a prize.” Caitlin said it was quite hard to choose a favourite orchid, but she particularly loved Vanda orchids.
“Mum gave me her vandas and I have been growing them since. Also adding to my collection with different colours and flower sizes over the years,” explained Caitlin. “My advice would be to start with a variety that’s known to be a bit easier to care for such as Dendrobium or Cattleya types, which are the most forgiving. “People will give you heaps of advice, but you have to find what works for you. I listen to my music while watering or spraying them with fertiliser.”
Caitlin said a highlight to date had been a recent win at a local show. “I was so excited to win a first place ribbon at the Bribie Island Orchid Show,” she said. “It then went on to be considered for champion of the show – which was a great honour!”
Caitlin said she was looking forward to the upcoming Spring Show where she would be helping out in the plant sales area and also on the plant sales tills. “I will also be selling some of my plants and keeping an eye out for new ones to add to my collection,” she said Noela Frizzo is patron of the Club with a lifetime of experience in growing, breeding and exhibiting orchids.
Caitlin said she admired Noela greatly, and said she enjoyed her sense of humour and approachable nature. “ I love the way she is always willing to help out with advice or pitching in to help,” Caitlin said. “The way she can recall the different parentage of plants and can look at a flower and nearly always knows the name of it. “And the information she has about orchids is more than most of us will ever know about them!”
Noela said it was wonderful to see young people being involved in the fascinating world of orchids. As patron of the Orchid society she urged the community to come along and enjoy the beautiful upcoming orchid display at Beerwah community hall.
“It will be brimming with a huge range of colour and intoxicating smells,” she said. “We have experts on hand to offer advice on the best orchid for your area if you wish to buy one, along with foliage plants and orchid accessories.”
$5 adult admission, from Friday (Sept 20) 8.30- 4.30pm and Saturday (Sept 21) from 8.30- 2.30pm at Beerwah Community Hall, Peachester Road. www.glasshouseorchids.com.au