June 2 at 7:00 p.m. Speaker: Michael Sinn
Topic: Orchid Hunting in Venezuela
Born in Venezuela to German parents, Michael Sinn became fascinated with orchids at the age of twelve when he took over the care and culture of his mother’s extensive collection of Cattleyas and Oncidiums. He grew up hiking the jungles of South America, whenever possible, in search of Cattleyas in their natural habitats. Using his degree in civil engineering from Universidad Metropilitana in Caracas, Michael worked as a contractor for four years in the Venezuelan Amazon State. The work afforded himopportunities to further observe habitats but, more important, he came to understand the urgency for conservation. He spent much personal time teaching local people how to pollinate the orchids, impressing upon them the need to let the plants remain in their natural habitat.
Michael’s instincts drew him toward breeding Cattleyas and Laelias, eventually starting his own nursery. By 2003, Michael and his growing family moved to Florida where he opened his nursery business, Canaima Orchids, which he continues to develop. Through his excursions over the years to habitats in Brazil, Colombia and Venezuela, Michael’s vision remains constant: to conserve native species by producing the finest cultivars of Cattleya species possible. Orchid connoisseurs turn to him for superior seedlings and divisions.
Michael Sinn is a widely recognized top quality breeder, honored with numerous international awards. A writer, popular lecturer, and Certified Judge with the American Orchid Society, he serves as Judging Chairman for the Venezuelan Orchid Association (A.V.O.).
Michael Sinn is the owner of Canaima Orchids, 6635 Sim Barco Road, Palmetto, FL 34221, Ph. 941/773-2940 Visitors are always welcome at the greenhouses & showroom. Facilities are available for holding luncheon meetings & demonstrations. Canaima Orchids is open to the public Saturdays only, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Weekdays by appointment. www.canaimaorchids.com
