The delicate, exotic radiance of the orchid flower is widely known, with this lovely floral finding a spot in a variety of lush gardens throughout Florida. Yet few know the rich and resilient nature of the orchid. For a chance to learn more about orchids as well as celebrate and appreciate them, attend the Nature Coast Orchid Society’s (NCOS) 2023 Annual Auction.
Offering beautiful orchids of every size, shape, color and genera, the auction will take place on Saturday, August 19, in the Fellowship Hall at the Northcliffe Church, 10515 Northcliffe Blvd. An American Orchid Society auctioneer will conduct the bidding, with the event preview beginning at 11 a.m. and the auction itself starting at noon. This auction is open to the public, with no entry fees charged. President of the Nature Coast Orchid Society, Matt Riesz, stated, “The auction will feature orchid stock from Florida growers and NCOS members’ divisions. Guests will have plenty of time to preview the flowers before buying, and plenty of experts will be on hand to answer questions. This is where you can see the full spectrum of the orchids available in colors and types, many more than you usually see in stores.”
And as guests peruse and purchase a plethora of floral gems, numbering more than 200, they’ll be supporting a good cause. “NCOS is a 501(C)(3) nonprofit that educates people about orchids, offering information about the types of orchids, colors, what to do when they bloom, and how to care for them,” said Riesz. “We have top-quality speakers and experts presenting programs at our meetings. And we have a lot of fun.”
The club meets monthly for ten months of the year, hosts a large-scale show once a year, presents picnics and socials, and contributes to the efforts of the American Orchid Society. And at their next meeting, the Nature Coast Orchid Society will host Norman Fang of Orchids.com on Saturday, September 16. This California family business produces, grows, and ships its award-winning orchids to every type of orchid plant market. The meeting will take place in the Fellowship Hall, 10515 Northcliffe Blvd., Spring Hill. A member’s plant display and on-site raffle will be available at this session. Doors open at 11 a.m., and the meeting starts at 12 p.m. NCOS welcomes visitors for a free visit. For more information, call 352-895-4035.
Riesz shared how lovely and diverse orchid blooms are. They glow in hues of red, lavender, blue, gold and come in vibrant patterns and various shapes. He stated, “Orchids are the biggest group within the plant world, with 25,000 species and a quarter of a million registered hybrids.”
And despite their opulent veneer, Riesz emphasized that orchids are easy to grow and care for. They are easier to take care of than you would expect.
“When people attend the auction, they’re often looking for orchids to fill their personal gardens,” stated Reisz. Discover your own perfect orchid this Saturday at the 2023 Annual NCOS Auction. Cash or credit cards will be accepted for purchases. Call 352-895-4035 for more information.
