Orchids Education and Training
Learn to grow healthy orchid flowers by obtaining knowledge from books and experienced growers
As an orchid grower, you want to have healthy, good-looking plants available for the retailers who buy orchids from you. Every orchid florist who makes orchid bouquets will be looking for the best quality flowers. Make sure you're up to the task by getting the education and training you need.Whether you own a small nursery or a large commercial operation, you'll need to know a lot about each stage of the growing process. From selecting your first plants to warding off disease, knowledge is critical. Orchid growers should consider the following for their orchids education and training:
1. Attend events that focus on orchid plants. You can learn a lot just from attending trade shows and similar events.
2. Learn from other orchid wholesalers by joining flower associations or societies. There are both local and statewide clubs to join, and you are certain to learn something from experienced members.
3. Buy a few books to teach you about the growing process. Whether you buy orchid seeds or start from cuttings, you can obtain a wealth of information from books about orchids.
Attend local events for growers of orchid flowers
Local events, including orchid shows, conventions and seminars, can benefit beginners and experts alike. You'll learn about controlling the growing conditions specific to your area as well as more broad knowledge that applies to growers everywhere.
Try: Find events held in your area by the American Orchid Society. Locate your local Cooperative State Research, Education, and Extension Service office to see if it's hosting any orchid events in your county.
Join orchid plant associations, clubs and societies
Orchid associations are great sources for gathering information. Not only can you benefit from the knowledge of the others in the group, you'll also have access to networking opportunities and special magazines and newsletters. Associations usually charge minimal fees but give you access to a wealth of perks.
Try: Check out the MidAmerica Orchid Congress to find a club in your area. You can find local and state orchid societies using The Orchid Mall as well.
Get your hands on some books for gardeners of orchids
Books are a great way for orchid growers to further their educations. There are books dedicated to different aspects of growing the plant as well as to specific breeds. For example, if you specialize in growing phalaenopsis orchids, you may choose to find a book that discusses only that breed.
Try: Consider the recommendations from the Orchid Society of Southern California, which has titles suitable for all experience levels. Balogh International is also a great source for orchid books.
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