the Bronx blooms again

The NYBG Orchid Show opens today, and I was lucky enough to get a sneak preview on Thursday morning.  I enjoyed it more than usual, for two reasons.  This year the orchids are displayed more naturally, without the flashy, extravagant hardscape we've seen in years past.  The interior landscape has an elegant flow, relying more on the beauty of the plants themselves than on the splash of hardscape and architectural display.

And really, orchids don't need any extra splash, do they?

Clearly Francisca Coehlo agrees.  As VP for Glasshouses and Exhibitions, Francisca has helped design the show for years, but this year the display is entirely her work.

Reason #2:  Mark Hachadourian led our tour, supplementing plant descriptions with fascinating tidbits of information, teaching even an orchid lover like me a thing or two.

Mark's official title is Manager of the Nolen Greenhouses for Living Collections, but his true title should be Orchid King & Walking Encyclopedia.

Watching the gardeners assemble the displays was my favorite part.  I love a behind the scenes peek.

 (Note the orchids on the right have not yet had their pots masked with Spanish moss.)

The show runs from March 2 through April 22 and includes not only the fabulous display in the Enid Haupt Conservatory, but also beefed up supplies of orchids for sale in the shop, and lots of special orchid classes and lectures.  How about a Saturday evening stroll through the conservatory, cocktail in hand?  For a full listing of events, check the Garden's website.