Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden invites guests to "Join the Expedition" during Orchid Spectacular, its annual showcase of orchids beginning Jan. 20. The event continues through March 18 with a focus on the explorers who risked their lives in exotic jungles to discover new orchid species.
In addition to Orchid Spectacular's colorful naturalized displays created with the garden's collection of 5,000 orchids, the garden is also featuring a wide variety of classes that appeal to both experienced orchid enthusiasts and those who are just slightly curious about these captivating plants.
The garden's January selection of Orchid Spectacular classes includes:
Orchids of Australia: NCPOS Meeting and Guest Lecture, 1 p.m. Jan. 15. The North Carolina Piedmont Orchid Society and DSBG are partnering to present a special guest lecture. Tom Mirenda, orchid specialist for the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C., will present "Orchids of Australia." Join in on this rare opportunity to learn from a visiting expert and meet some of the area's most outstanding orchid experts in the NCPOS membership.
Orchid Conservatory Tour, noon-1 p.m. Jan. 21. Take a walk on the wild side when you tour the new exhibits on display in the Orchid Conservatory.
Orchids in Your Home, 2-4 p.m. Jan. 21. Learn how to grow and succeed with orchids at home. The Garden's Orchid Specialist Lee Potts will discuss tips for growing and repotting orchids. Participants will leave with two orchids - one that they pot themselves, and one already in bloom to enjoy. Cost is $20 for members and $25 for non-members, plus $25 materials fee.
Plant Portraits: Orchids Under Lights, 1-4 p.m. Jan. 22,. Learn to create stunning plant portraits by working with plants in a studio setting. Class will be held off-site in the Haithcox studio in Dallas, N.C., where orchids from the Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden will serve as 'models.' Taught by Rick Haithcox, Haithcox Photography, this class will cost $40 for members and $46 for non-members.
Orchid Spectacular is sponsored by Rodgers Builders. Except where noted, "Orchid Spectacular" is free with garden admission: adults, $12; seniors 60 and older, $11; and children 4-12, $6. Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden, 6500 S. New Hope Road, Belmont, N.C., is open seven days a week from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, visit DSBG.org or call 704-825-4490.
