HERSHEY, Pa. (WHTM) – Walking into the Milton & Catherine Hershey Conservatory at Hershey Gardens for the Susquehanna Orchid Society Show and Sale is a feast for the senses.

Visitors are greeted with a subtle, sweet vanilla-like smell and a room bursting with color. The sides of the room are flanked with orchids from multiple different orchid societies that have been judged onsite and given national awards. In the middle are an array of orchids available for purchase for gardening enthusiasts.

In total, there are about 1,000 orchids on display in the room.

Orchids are known to be temperamental plants and require specified care that differs from most plants, but if cared for correctly they can last for up to 15 years, according to Martha Stewart.

Orchids need to be well watered. If they are thirsty their roots will turn dull silver, white, or pale green. Indirect light is best for them, so an east or west-facing window is best. Be sure not to put an orchid in a location where it can get overheated by a vent or will get a draft from a door. Orchids require special mediums with good drainage such as bark or perlite.

Orchids also need to be fertilized once a month from March until November.

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The Hershey Orchid Show also acts as a resource for orchid owners to learn how to best take care of their plants. Starting Friday, Feb. 2 there will be multiple seminars relating to orchids including treating diseases and pests, how to choose the orchid that is right for you, and more.

There will also be a “Repot Spot” where orchid owners can receive help repotting and dividing their orchids. If you have any questions about the orchids you have at home or ones you just purchased at the show, there is an “Ask the Orchid Experts” station.

The show and sale run from Friday, Feb. 2 to Sunday, Feb. 4 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. with the member preview being held on Thursday. On Saturday Hitch Coffee truck will be on site for the duration of the event and on Sunday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Lynn & Gray Coffee Co. will be available for guests.

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