The largest orchid auction in the Mid- Atlantic region is scheduled for Oct. 11 at the Monmouth Reform Temple, 332 Hance Ave., Tinton Falls. The auction begins at noon, with doors opening for a preview at 11 a.m.
The auction, which is sponsored by the Deep Cut Orchid Society (DCOS), will feature more than 400 exotic orchids from all over the world, according to a press release.
Orchids from some of the country’s most successful and award-winning growers will be available from these prize growers: Carmela Orchids, H&R Nurseries, Kalapana Tropical Orchids, Komoda Orchids, Krull-Smith Orchids, Lehua Orchids, Newman’s Nursery, Piping Rock Orchids, Silva Orchids, Sunset Valley Orchids and Waldor Orchids. Prices can start as low as $5.
DCOS is one of the oldest and largest orchid club in the region. It is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the education of orchids and the growing of orchids.
All monies raised are used to bring in orchid experts as speakers to the monthly meetings, according to the press release.
Joan Mesander, auction chair, said the flowers of many orchid species last for weeks.
“Some orchids can bloom for as long as six months. Most other flowers last for a short period of time and then they die,” she said.
Mesander also noted that orchids are the most diverse plant species on earth, with more than 25,000 pure bred species named and more than 250,000 hybrids named.
“Orchids are marvelous gifts for anyone throughout the year. For holidays, birthdays, anniversaries, graduations and house warming and thank you gifts,” she said.
DCOS board member Carol Abaya said, “I love to walk into my kitchen and feast on the bright colors of my blooming orchids. Orchid colors range from white to bright yellows, pinks, magentas, orange and even greens. One of my favorites is the color of peaches, with subtle yellows and pinks throughout the flowers.”
Admission and parking are free. Food and drinks will be available.