I recently wrote an article for the AOR on the subject of the correct judging of Orchid species restricted for judging. The number of people who contacted me agreeing with my reasoning amazed me. The response to old codgers about “what is wrong with judging” was so refreshing. All I could suggest was to take it up with their various State and Regional (or National) organisations.
There is another area that really worries me, and that is the judging of Champion flowers and plants. Like all good things in life, the judging of Champion flowers and plants must be done correctly and consistently.
Many show schedules had a clause that said “Champion of the Show” and this was a number of people who contacted me agreeing with my reasoning amazed me. The response to old codgers about “what is wrong with judging” was so refreshing. All I could suggest was to take it up with their various State and Regional (or National) organisations.
There is another area that really worries me, and that is the judging of Champion flowers and plants. Like all good things in life, the judging of Champion flowers and plants must be done correctly and consistently.
Many show schedules had a clause that said “Champion of the Show” and this included any genus that exhibited. This would seem fair and equitable, was it? It wasn’t.
I go to the Sydney Royal Easter Show from time to time to watch the cattle judging. It is done in an orderly fashion. Each breed is judged separately, and an overall Champion is selected from all the best of breed. This ensures all species and all genera have equal opportunity.
Now my favourite breeds are the South American Cattleya species and all that separates the best is the colour and size. Now here’s where the problem lies — orchids vary greatly in size and habit and flower count. There is no way a small plant like Masdevallia can compete with a Cymbidium or Vanda for Champion of the Show.
Longview will never cover a Scottish Highlander to the standard of competition of Show. They have not been bred to the standard of excellence or say show. They will excel at what they were bred for, endurance.
This situation is seen in all aspects of judging, except it would seem, for orchids.
Now here’s a way out of this situation. Many years ago I was involved in exhibiting and judging of dahlias. There was a Dahlia cultivars called ‘Mrs Jack Robertson’. If it was shown, and it regularly was, it was HERB FORD.
The judges liked that flower simply. The judges liked that flower simply.
Now I know how you feel about that statement. But there is a clear explanation available.
Now if Orchid judges want to be revered with respect, they should ensure that the rules of show judging are clearly laid down and are followed to the letter.
If Orchid judges want to ensure that the Society thought leaders are not ignored, they must ensure that the rules are adhered to.
If Orchid judges want to be taken seriously, they must stop being swayed by popularity.
If Orchid Enthusiasts are invited to attend a fantastic Orchid show in Nature’s Wonderland, then the most avid connoisseur will be available to sit in judgement
Keith Wallace Nursery 