With his usual warm and friendly manner Paul welcomed us into his garden brimming with vanda orchids.  What a spectacular sight.  Vivid purples, reds, yellows, pinks and oranges –  an orchid lover’s haven.  He took us on a tour enlightening everyone with useful information and tips.  Never over water your orchids – a light spray twice a day in hot sunny weather is ample.  Fertilize once weekly; his choice is Peters.  A phenomenal looking dracaena caught everyone’s attention  as well as a collection of pretty anthuriums growing in the shade of a huge julie mango tree.   All of the shrubs, flowering plants and ferns are in tip top condition and worthy of praise.  Paul and Bernadette are obviously keen gardeners.

 

A very informative talk on the growing and caring of bromeliads by Lou Anna Patterson was another highlight of the meeting.  She had taken the time and effort to bring her own bromeliads for display and what beauties they were.  Thank you very much Lou Anna.

 

We had a stunning showbench of orchids which was judged by Paul.  First Prize, Second Prize  Best Grown and Members Choice were won by Simone Taylor.  Third Prize went to Nicole de Verteuuil.  Congratulations ladies for entering such beautiful orchid specimens.

 

Refreshments were served and everyone enjoyed chatting and mingling. A huge thank you to Paul and Bernadette for such a wonderful afternoon.  It was a pleasure for everyone.