If you have a question about judging, you may find the answer here. If not, please feel free to email us at NCJC@orchidenterprise.com
Q: What do I need to do before I bring an orchid in to be judged?
A: First, Make sure your plant is not harboring any pests or diseases. Second, groom your plant of dried plant material, yellowing leaves and unsightly damage. Although the plant itself may not be considered for a horticultural award and points are only attributed to the flower(s) or inflorescence, the showing of a well grown, healthy plant always helps toward a good presentation. Some people place their potted plant inside a decorative pot, but most will present their plants in the pots they are growing in. Remember – judges are looking at the flowers or plant, not the pot.
Q: What is considered “appropriate flower manipulation”?
A: Technically speaking, a flower or group of flowers should not be “manipulated” in any way that would miss-represent the flower’s natural appearance. So what does this mean? If you have to bend or press the flower parts in order to flatten them or change their natural stance, this would be considered inappropriate manipulation. If, however staking the inflorescence helps support the flowers and better presents them to the judges, this would be considered appropriate. The discussion as to what is appropriate and what is inappropriate can go on at length. Ideally, all an exhibitor should have to do is bloom their plant and bring it to judging.