Yesterday I joined three friends/fellow master gardeners for a girls day out at the Orchid Escape in Amazonia at the Evansville Mesker Zoo & Botanical Garden.
If you are in the area, the Orchid Escape will be going on through March 16. In addition to the hundreds of orchids, it sure felt good to walk from the cold outside temps to the lush 75 degree South American climate. But even if you miss the orchids, spending time in Amazonia is well worth the time.
I’ve never been interested in orchids. To me, they are up there with the other “high maintenance” plants that I have little time, energy, or patience for. But I felt like I needed to stretch a bit and it had been a long time since I’ve been through Amazonia. Also, it would be nice to spend time with these three interesting women.
I was really surprised and kind of disappointed with my attitude all of these years. Just because I don’t want to mess with them, I could still love them and after yesterday – I do!
Here are just a few of the beautiful orchids.
And, of course, have to have a picture of the group.
What a fun day – good company and beautiful plants.
It looks like you had a lovely time. Beautiful flowers and good friends, make for a good time!
Diane recently posted..A Busy Day Today!
Wow, what an amazing place!! I used to have orchids, but gave them away when we got the cats, so now succulents have replaced orchids in our home (and in my heart). But that they look so beautiful when paired in a garden!
Kristina recently posted..7/52
Kristina, You used to grow them? Wow! You are so talented!
Orchids are like all plants. It takes a little time to understand them but for the most part a lot of the species can be easily grown in your home. I tell all newer beginners (as Im still a beginner with a smaller collection of around 40) that all you need to understand is they grow on trees in the wild and therefor too much water will kill them easier than a regular plant adapted to ground growing. The only reason why many consider them high maintenance is because they kill them without understanding why.
If you ever want to try your hand, http://www.orchidboard.com is a great resource and full of helpful tips.
Joshua, Thanks for the info on growing orchids. They are lovely.