ON TUESDAY, March 3, 2015, approximately 40 Club members and guests attended the first meeting following February’s AGM.

Tom Price from the Cheltenham Orchid Society gave a most instructive talk on the various types of orchids, illustrating them with a number of orchids he had brought with him.

The plants ranged from those liking cooler climes such as Cymbidiums to those from warmer climes such as the current favourite, moth orchids (Phalaenopsis) which were on sale in most supermarkets as well as nurseries.

Mr Price explained the needs of the various orchids in terms of temperature, watering, humidity, siting and compost.

He made up his own compost and had brought along bags for sale.

These were eagerly snapped up.

Some of the orchid flowers could last for several months while smaller flowers tended to last for a few weeks.

Careful pruning could bring on new flower shoots.

He demonstrated propagation techniques for different types of orchid.

Mr Price was thanked for a most enjoyable talk and demonstration.

Following questions, a free raffle was held for a small pot of petite daffodils.

Members were encouraged to continue passing on their suggestions to the Committee and to hand in their questions for the Gardeners’ Question Time in June.

The meeting in April would take the form of a plant sale.

Members were asked to bring along their plants for that meeting to be held on Tuesday, April 7.

Non-members are welcome.

Refreshments are available from 7.30pm.

Membership and other information relating to the Hilltop Gardening Club can be obtained from Margaret Headen on 01453 884869 or by viewing our website at hilltopgardeningclub.org.uk

New and non-members are welcome at our club meetings which are usually held on the first Tuesday of the month from Autumn to Spring.