Orchid Society of Western Pennsylvania show blooming

With a theme of “An Orchid Journey,” the Orchid Society of Western Pennsylvania will hold its annual orchid show March 14-15 at the Crown Plaza Hotel in Pittsburgh.

“An ‘orchid journey’ is meant to describe the opportunity to experience the unbelievable variety and beauty of orchids firsthand,” says Norma Raiff, show co-chairwoman.

“It also refers to the journey of discovery involved in learning how to grow orchids so they reach their potential. Most people remember the first orchid they bought. Perhaps it was in a supermarket … and perhaps they killed it,” Raiff adds.

“But regardless of the first outcome, they often continue their quest, either trying again or even buying a different type of orchid. Our spring show offers beautiful exhibits, free educational classes, re-potting services and the chance to ask members and vendors questions related to your specific interests and needs,” she says.

A beautiful challenge?

Starter orchid growers, Raiff says, often begin with phaleonopsis (phal or ‘moth’ orchids) which grow easily in one’s home and bloom for a long time.

“Many lady slipper orchids (paphiopedilum) are also called beginner orchids. They originate in the jungles of the Far East, including Indonesia, and what is special about them is their unique pouch. They are easily grown as houseplants and their care is similar to that for African violets. Slipper orchids are among many of our members’ favorites,” she says.

Society volunteers share their expertise by assisting with curating and maintaining the Barbara Tisherman Slipper Orchid Collection at Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, Raiff adds.

Planning a visit

Raiff suggests photographers plan to come to the show at opening — 9 a.m. — on Sunday, when they will have “more room to maneuver.”

Visitors can look forward to hourly raffles or orchid plants and orchid-related items.

“People from the Pittsburgh area are great orchid lovers and shoppers, which is one reason why we have attracted 10 vendors, including several long-standing orchid partners from Ohio, Pennsylvania, Connecticut and New York,” she says.

“One of the great things about our vendors is that they will talk to you about the plant’s culture needs and expected color and size. This is really helpful, because most orchids are seasonal growers and may not be in bloom in March,” she says.

Most vendors have photos showing how the orchid will look in bloom, Raiff notes.

Plants for sale will range from beginner to more challenging. Orchids can fit into many different budgets, Raiff says, depending on whether it’s a seedling or a mature budding or blooming plant, and whether it is a common or rare variety.

A popular show option is re-potting. Re-potting price ranges from $4-$12, depending on size. Visitors can watch as flowers are re-potted and roots are trimmed. “It’s a small investment for something you might want to do at home,” Raiff adds. “Advice is free,” she says.