Category Archives: Meetings

Guillermo Salazar

Topic: “Best Stanhopeas and related species for Florida””

Guillermo Salazar was born in Miami and grew up in El Salvador in Central America, where he found that orchids were the most attractive plants in this environment. He began collecting orchids at the age of nine and became the youngest member of the San Salvador Orchid Society, the largest in the country’s capital. Returning to the U.S., he received his degree in Landscape Design and Management and a Master’s degree in Science in Environmental Horticulture from the University of Florida, where he learned the importance of protecting natural resources, particularly orchids, in Florida. Guillermo has worked as a professional Landscape Designer in private and governmental areas and is presently the Landscape Superintendent for the city of Miami Lakes.

Guillermo is an AOS student judge, board member of several orchid societies and a Florida Master Gardener and has spoken at several local and regional orchid societies. He has published several orchid articles for S. Florida and international magazines and his specialties in orchids are Angraecoids, Bulbophyllum, and rare and miniature tropical species. Guillermo will be discussing Stanhopeas and related species, with special emphasis on those suited for Florida growers.This genus is found in Central and South America and is known for the intricate flowers and especially complex structures for pollination. Following his presentation, he will be glad to answer questions and will have a selection of his best orchids for sale.

In his spare time, Guillermo is a breeder of pedigree Persian and Himalayan cats (felines, not catts), enjoys gardening and exploring the world’s tropical regions.

Doors open at 6:30 p.m.

Speaker: Michael Polen

Topic: “Repotting Orchids Without Pots”

We’re fortunate to have Michael Polen, the owner of Art Stone Orchids in St. Petersburg, a premium supplier of orchids and potting supplies since 1986, back to speak on one of his favorite topics. He has twice been past president of the West Coast Orchid Society and speaks at many societies. He continues to participate in numerous orchid shows, including several appearances at our Venice Show. Art Stone Orchids/Palmer Orchids have previously won many AOS and society show trophies for their outstanding displays and orchids.

Michael will be discussing and demonstrating various techniques for repotting orchids without pots, including baskets, tree fern columns, cypress slabs and various other unusual mounts. He always has yet a few more tricks up his sleeves and the show is one you don’t want to miss.

Michael will have supplies, mounts and orchids for sale and will be happy to answer your questions.

Doors open at 6:30 p.m.

Why Orchids Have so Many Species?

Speaker: Dr. David Benzing

Dr. David Benzing has a Ph.D. in botany and was a professor at Oberlin College for more than 40 years. He spends his winters in Sarasota and is the Jessie B.Cox Chair of Tropical Biology at Marie Selby Botanical Gardens and has written a number of books about epiphytes and tropical plants. He practices what he preaches and has been an avid orchid hybridizer and grower for a number of years. He’s a wine grower and co-owner of Vermilion Valley Vineyards (sorry, no samples) and will share his love of orchids and epiphytes.
He’ll be speaking about the many factors that play a role in determining why orchids have so many distinct species, and will be happy to take questions from the audience.
He’ll lead us through the fascinating evolution of orchids and will have copies of his books for sale and Jeff Higel, Honey Bee Nursery, will have orchids for sale.