Although it may seem like we are in the middle of a wet Hawaiian winter, March 20 will be our first day of spring. Around the world, spring marks the start of a profusion of flower shows. In Hawai'i, spring means orchids; 18 shows are held annually in Hawai'i, and eight of these are on O'ahu.

This will be a trying year for the early shows on O'ahu. Just finding flowering orchids is a problem. Many local wholesale nurseries' stocks are depleted, having sold plants to other nurseries that attend the large orchid and flower shows on the Mainland. So the hobbyists — backyard growers — need to pull through.

Another problem is the recent constant cloud cover, which delays the flowering on many orchids. The excessive rainfall also has been a problem. Plus there have been widespread outbreaks of fungal infections such as petal blight, Botrytis cinerea (brown spots on flowers), and black rot, Phytophthora cactorum (quickly spreading watery black areas on leaves and stems of orchids, especially cattleyas).

To control these fungal infections, keep the orchids dry and provide good air circulation. Remove any diseased tissue at least an inch ahead of the infection. Remove all diseased material (dead leaves and flowers) from the growing areas. Treat infected orchids with the appropriate fungicide. For more information, talk to experts at the orchid shows or better yet, attend some of the free workshops.

Most amazing is that despite these obstacles, this month we have two of the most beautiful orchid shows of the year. I don't know where the orchids will come from, but expect a treat! Orchid clubs' displays include phalaenopsis, cattleyas, epidendrums and, of course, Hawai'i's favorite, the hono- hono dendrobium.

Better yet, take some home. Orchid clubs are nonprofit organizations that depend on income from the shows to support their monthly meetings. So "no be shame," buy some orchids to beautify your home. When the flowers have faded, put them in a partially shaded area in your yard and watch them bloom again.

This weekend launches a parade of shows, starting with the Hui Okika O Kunia Show in Kunia. Due to the closing of Del Monte, we don't know what the future holds for this show, so be sure to attend, and bring friends.

Let's rid ourselves of our wintry blues and check out these great orchid shows!