The largest orchid auction in the tristate region is scheduled for Oct. 6 at the Colts Neck Fire Company No. 1, 88 Route 537 West, Colts Neck. More than 400 prime orchids from award-winning growers in Japan, Venezuela, Hawaii and across the United States will be auctioned off.
Orchids are Earth’s most varied species of plants, with more than 25,000 pure strains and 250,000 hybrids. Colors of all seasons and the rainbow are seen in orchids, according to a press release. The auction will begin at 10 a.m. The preview will begin at 9:30 a.m. The auction is being sponsored by the Deep Cut Orchid Society, a nonprofit organization dedicated to the education of orchids and the growing of orchids. All money raised is used to bring in orchid experts as speakers to the monthly meetings, according to the press release.
Joan Mesander, auction chairwoman, said many unusual species of orchids will be available at the auction. Mesander, who is a relatively new orchid collector, said, “There is a certain thrill connected to bidding for that special flower. The excitement of bidding and winning is really indescribable.
“Besides winning a favorite flower, the auction day provides fun and socialization for everyone. Funds will enable DCOS to continue bringing in expert speakers, conduct greenhouse tours, and have its annual picnic and holiday celebrations,” she said.
Faye Arnett, DCOS president, said, “Orchids present nature at its best, its most unusual. Some orchids bloom several times a year, and their colors and shapes are incredible.”
DCOS board member Carol Abaya pointed out that most flowers only last a few days or maybe a couple of weeks.
“I have an orchid which has dozens of flowers that has been blooming for more than six months. No other plant has this capacity,” she said.
Entrance and parking at the auction are free. Food and drinks will be available.
DCOS meets the second Tuesday of every month (except August) at 7:30 p.m. at the Monmouth Jewish Reform Temple, 332 Hance Ave., Tinton Falls. The program features a talk on orchids, a display table and discussion of the plants on the table, and refreshments. Everyone is welcome; guests do not have to be DCOS members to attend.
Details: Joan Mesander, 732-787-4460, or Carol Abaya, 732-536-6215.