Flower numbers down, but orchids still capture the imagination

Bay of Plenty Orchid Society member Jill Nisbet at the society's annual show in Te Puke.

A cold snap may have stalled flower development but there were still plenty of orchids to see at the Bay of Plenty Orchid Society show.

The two-day show that began on Friday had plenty of visitors, although numbers were slightly down on last year, possibly, speculates society secretary Faye Diprose, because of the school holidays.

"Most of the people who had stalls were really pleased with it," she says.

Displays from the hosting society and the Tauranga society meant there was plenty to admire despite a short but sudden drop in temperature two or three weeks before the show.

"Everything seemed to get in bud, then stop," says Diprose.

Jill Nisbet, a member of both societies, says that is all part and parcel of the attraction of orchids.

"The challenge is to get them flowering — to look after them," she says. "They can be frustrating, and they can die."

Nisbet's hard work means the variety in her collection is such that she can enjoy flowers all year round.

"I like them all, but I can't grow the real warmth-loving ones because I don't have the heat."

The show was on in Te Puke Memorial Hall last Friday and Saturday.