SARASOTA – The Sarasota Orchid Society hosts its 63rd annual event at the Municipal Auditorium, Saturday.
They bring an array of colors to its ‘Orchids of Paradise’ event.
“We have many varieties of orchids,” Marta Hudson said. “You’re probably accustomed to see just what you see at the box stores, but it’s a lot more than that.”
They bring exotic orchids to the show, requiring different types of treatment. Some, need more light, others need more humidity.
American Orchid Society judges came to give recognition to the ‘best of kind’ orchid, receiving ribbons and trophies.
A Sarasota Orchid Society Member, Mary Jo Zaksas, loves the exotic ones. She bought her first orchid here at this event about 19 years ago and has a plethora of them now.
“I’ve got the regular, what I consider the more regular orchids,” Mary Jo Zaksas said. “First is the more exotics, and I love the exotics. The exotics are fun.”
Hudson explains what you need to do when you take the orchids home.
“You just need to adjust them when you get to your house,” Hudson said. “And, either keep them indoors or outdoors, it depends on their conditions and their requirements.”
A booklet of information on how to properly care for the orchids is provided for guests at the event.
Classes are also held at the showcase.
“You learn how to take care of them and help them adapt,” Hudson said.
So, attendees can leave with an orchid and knowledge.
“I love this show, and I love the Sarasota Orchid Society, they do a great job,” Zaksas said.
The event continues on Sunday. It will be from 10am to 5pm at the Sarasota Municipal Auditorium. Admission is $5. For more information, you can visit their website.
