Tong Garden Centre held its third annual Orchid Day where lovers of the tropical species received free advice and health checks for their plants from expert Chris Channon, an award-winning orchid grower and RHS gold medallist for his orchid displays.

Throughout the day, Chris gave general advice, ‘Tropical Orchids for Beginners' talks and re-potting demonstrations in the houseplant area at Tong and hosted a question and answer session.

Visitor Karen Willcock from Burley was enthused: "I learned a lot about orchid growing, repotting and essential orchid care. Chris was very welcoming in examining and ‘first aiding' my plant."

Tong's Plant Buyer Steve Smith said: "The event has proved, once again, to be very successful. Our customers really value Chris's expert advice and how well it was presented. There seems to be a growing trend towards growing orchids - we've seen sales increase by almost 50% year on year - and I'm sure that free advice days like these encourage people to learn more about caring for their orchid. We're really looking forward to next year's event."

 Chris Channon managed Deva Orchids, a successful orchid nursery near Chester, for more than 21 years before he retired from growing and showing orchids in December, 2008.

He is now using his knowledge and experience to support Growth Technology's Orchid Days by informing orchid owners about looking after the exotic plants and offering free advice on any issues they may have.