The Man Who Loves Orchids

 

By Suraj Sasi

Men are not usually considered your typical orchid lover.

However, John Marcotte who runs OrchidsCanada.com and has a particular fondness for this species of flowers.

Marcotte has been growing orchids for more than 35 years and recently spoke at an event called ‘Orchid Stew-All Things Orchid’, organized by the Windsor Orchid Society at the horticultural greenhouse of St.Clair College.

“I have a big greenhouse that was a hobby greenhouse when I first built it…it was for orchids,” said Marcotte.

Marcotte explained a lot about orchids during this event. He also talked about those who try hard, with little success, to grow the delicate flower.

“Most beginners kill the orchids because they care for them too much..they overreact if they see a single gnat and they are bombarded with heavy chemicals and they just over care,” said Marcotte.

“In the orchid world, a little neglect goes a long way to growing good orchids so my advice is like your orchid and enjoy.”

Among the people who came to learn was Cheri Tupling, who has been with the Orchid Society for two years now and was fascinated to learn new facts about orchids.

“Today was a fantastic day. John is such a great speaker because he has got the pictures to show you what it is and what are you are going to have as the end result,” said Tupling.

Tupling wants orchid lovers to know that coming to these events will help you learn more about them.

“Come to the Orchid Society because if you have any problems growing you can bring it in and in our group some of the guys are smarter than others they would be able to help you troubleshoot.”

The Windsor Orchid society holds monthly meetings at St.Clair College and every year they organize a huge show during the fall when people from as far away as Ecuador come and show their orchids.