With over a thousand species of orchids in the world, many of them being native to here in Australia, it’s no surprise that there are countless people who are deeply passionate about the colourful flower family. Orchids are famously unique in that each type usually has a distinctive look, diverse specialisations and growing methods that can require a bit more thought and care than the average houseplant. With the 21st Annual Mingara Orchid Club Inc. Fair & Show happening this month, we thought now would be the perfect time to reach out and check in with Steve Dunstan, President of the Mingara Orchid Club, and ask a few questions about his long-running interest in the plant as well as any advice he’d give to beginner growers.

 

How long have you been passionate about orchids?

“I’ve been passionate about and growing orchids for about forty years. I can still remember the first orchids, a very early Cymbidium and a lovely Australian Native, or Bush Orchid, that I received from my older brother.”

 

What is your favourite type of orchid?

“My favourite type of orchids are all Australasian ones, mainly Dendrobiums from here in Australia and the nearby islands.”

 

What’s some advice you’d give to beginner growers?

“Don’t kill your orchids with kindness. Orchids in their main cycle are very tough and, just like us, don’t like to have wet feet or roots all the time. They only really need a drink and something to eat when they need it.”

“I think the best advice that I can give is don’t grow too many different genera of orchids, as providing the right conditions for many types in the same area is very difficult. And it doesn’t matter how long we’ve been growing orchids, we’re always learning. So come along to the Fair & Show at Mingara or head out to an orchid society meeting and just ask some questions. All queries are important, and don’t forget that every orchid grower started at the beginning!”

 

What would be the ideal environment for orchids to grow in?

“The ideal environment for orchid growing depends on two main factors. These factors being, where is your location? And where do the orchids you grow at this location come from? This is where understanding the orchids you’re growing is important. Most of the orchids we grow need some protection from the hot summer sun or kept out of the rain. A simple structure covered with shade cloth is usually enough.”

 

What are you most excited about at the upcoming Mingara Orchid Club Fair & Show?

“The Orchid Club Fair & Show brings together orchid lovers, from beginner growers to the more experienced ones. Those starting out can learn from the “old hands”, which is a great opportunity for them. As well as this, I’m excited to see the orchid nurseries and accessory stallholders that set up each year.”

“Over the weekend, visitors will see the most amassing orchids, displays from local orchid societies, and watch down-to-earth orchid talks and potting demonstrations on a range of topics, all while receiving lots of orchid growing information to take home. As well as orchids, we’ll have displays and demonstrations from local bonsai and succulent plants groups. Those coming along can purchase all their orchid wants in the one place, inside and out of the cold, and enjoy the excellent facilities Mingara Recreation Club has to offer at the same time.”

 

Join us on Saturday 28 June from 9am – 4pm and Sunday 29 June from 9am – 3pm in our events centre, entry is free! Click here to learn more