Putting orchids on a pedestal

Fictional detective Nero Wolfe loved orchids so much that he devoted four hours a day to them in the greenhouse atop his New York City brownstone.

Spokane Orchid Society president Jim Pearce is far less fanatical, though he did say, “Orchids are an addiction. You can never own just one.”

On Saturday and Sunday the Spokane Orchid Society will host its annual show and sale at the Southside Senior Activity Center.

The lure of orchids is undeniable. Pearce’s 50-member group meets monthly to discuss their passion for this flower. They never run out of topics and frequently host guest lecturers. In addition Pearce said, “Many of our programs are designed around a certain type of orchid.” Members especially look forward to the “ask the expert” session at each meeting.

Many believe that orchids are too delicate and too difficult to grow, but according to Pearce, they are hardier than we think. It doesn’t take a greenhouse. In fact very few orchids grow in dirt; instead they grow best in bark mixtures.

The delicate pink, lavender and white blossoms are the most familiar, but orchids also come in oranges, greens and deep purple. Growers are working on the development of a black orchid as well.

There seems to be an orchid for every environment. Some grow just fine in windowsill pots, while others need more shade. The Spokane Orchid Society plans regular field trips to see orchids growing in the wild or to visit area growers.

Folks from all over the Northwest will bring their flowers to be judged at the weekend show, and several vendors will be on hand as well.

But novice growers should beware. According to Pearce, “If you buy one, you’ll want to try another.”