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“What’s Wrong with this Picture” is the topic for Jim Roberts’ May 2nd presentation. Jim was our presenter in September of 2010 and was received so well that many members asked for him to return. His topic will be a refresher course on pests and problems of orchid plants and what to do about it and is oriented to the beginner and intermediate grower.

Jim is the owner and operator of Florida SunCoast Orchids which is located near Myakka City, FL. He has a 10,000 square foot greenhouse on five acres of land where he grows Cattleya, Phalaenopsis, Dendrobium, Vanda and Encyclia orchids. The greenhouse is only open by appointment but you can find Jim and his plants at 15-18 orchid shows a year around the state and at local markets in Sarasota. He specializes in growing Cattleya and Encyclia hybrids, flowering in 4-inch and 6-inch flowering pots and baskets. Larger and smaller sizes are available.

Jim is also a hybridizer and has created such beauties as Suncoast Sundrops and Florida Stars. “I strive to grow and sell the best quality orchid plants for all our customers, and to build a lasting reputation in the industry as one of the very best.”

Jim and his wife and kids live in the Sarasota area and have lived in Florida since 2001.

Please check out the website for beautiful pictures, lots of information and ordering plants on line. www.floridasuncoastorchids.com.

Next Meeting: Wednesday, June 6 at 7:00 p.m.
Speaker: Tom Aaron,
Green Earth Nursery, Jacksonville
“Using and Creating Micro Climates”
Tom Aaron was born and raised in an agricultural family
with experience growing citrus, corn and soybeans
among other edible crops. At the age of 12 Tom and his
younger brother became interested in growing plants and
began experimenting with dozens of african violet stem
cuttings to create more plants. After that it was just a matter
of time before Tom would eventually start his own orchid farm and a
landscape and interiorscape design business.
Tom holds two degrees in the Horticulture Sciences and currently operates
an orchid farm and orchid propagation lab in Northeast Florida with his
wife Kim – Green Earth Nursery & Landscaping. Tom has been active in
and served on the Board of Directors for the Jacksonville Orchid Society.
Tom’s presentation, entitled “Using and Creating Micro Climates” will focus
the grower on how to be perceptive of your environment, to learn from
your own experiences and to be able to create areas inside and outside of
your home where your orchids can thrive and grow. You’ll learn about the
basics: Temperature, Humidity, Water & Light, and how to use them in
creating a micro climate. Tom will also share some tips on how to enhance
the overall quality of your orchids

May 9, Wed. – “Tips and Tricks from Experienced Growers”

How do we water, fertilize and treat problems? What products are our favorites?  What media and pots are preferable?  What does a healthy plant look like?   Jimmy Thomas and Carol Wood, at the Community Center, 7 p.m. All members are welcome. You may also bring in your “problem plants” for personal advice. (Guests may become members:  $15 per household.)