Last week, I finally got a chance to get up to the Orchid Extravaganza at Longwood Gardens in Kennett Square, PA. All I can say – is that it is incredible! The conservatory is filled with all sorts of incredible orchids.

I expected to see orchids in the main conservatory and in the Orchid House. What I didn’t expect – was all the smaller orchid displays throughout the various conservatories.

One of the first surprises was the Orchid Mobile in the East Conservatory. Created by kinetic artist Henry Loustau, the rotating stainless steel mobile includes a wonderful display of orchids.

(c) 2009 Patty Hankins

As I walked towards the Music Room, the display in the fountain courtyard amazed me.

(c) 2009 Patty Hankins

A curtain of orchids drapes over the doors into the music room.

(c) 2009 Patty Hankins

In front of the music room, orchid topped fountains on pillars are set up in the pool.

(c) 2009 Patty Hankins

(c) 2009 Patty Hankins

One other major orchid display really caught my eye. In the Cascade Garden, a waterfall of Oncidium orchids i son display.

(c) 2009 Patty Hankins

I’ll be posting photos of some of the individual orchid displays over the next few weeks.

The Orchid Extravaganza at Longwood Gardens runs through March 31. If you get a chance, be sure to take a few hours and visit the orchid displays. I’m planning on making at least one more trip to Longwood Gardens before the exhibit ends.