May 19, 2004
Orchid show plethora of petals
Orchids by the Bay to be held May 29-30 at the Artcenter
By
Herald staff writer
Though many would argue, Peg Brace says you don't need a green thumb to raise orchids.
Brace will be among the local orchid enthusiasts displaying her plants at Orchids by the Bay sponsored by the Northwestern Michigan Orchid Society later this month.
"Orchid growing has become more popular because some of the plants are easy to flower and are readily available," said Brace who has been growing orchids for more than 20 years.
"A lot of people come to the show because they have purchased an orchid in bloom and want to be able to get it to bloom again. That's how they get hooked," she said.
Members of the local orchid society will be on hand to answer questions and share their knowledge at the event sanctioned by the American Orchid Society.
Commercial and individual growers will create displays of exotic, blooming plants from among the 15,000 known species. More than 600 plants will be on display.
An educational exhibit, orchid arrangements, orchid art and photography will be featured as well as a variety of plants for purchase.
"Anyone can grow orchids. You don't need to have a greenhouse or spend a lot of money. But, once you get started, it's like a disease," Brace said.
Orchids by the Bay will be held from noon to 6 p.m., Saturday, May 29 and noon to 4 p.m., Sunday, May 30 at the Artcenter Traverse City, 720 S. Elmwood, Suite 3 in Traverse City. Admission is free.