KEEPING YOUR GROCERY STORE ORCHID ALIVE AND THRIVING

Presented by Gary VanGelder

Have you ever purchased an orchid from a Grocery Store or Big Box Retailer to enjoy the beauty of the flowers. The flowers lasted for a while and then you watched in despair as the plant slowly faded away until it was ready for the compost heap. After a few times of this, you either no longer buy them or just consider them disposable. 

This presentation will help you have the best chance possible to change this scenario, so you can keep them thriving and get them to bloom again. Please consider attending even if you have solved how to keep them thriving, as you may hear a few things to help you do better, and possibly give me a few ideas.

My presentation will first cover some Basics of all Orchids and then delve deeply into the culture needs of these Grocery Store Orchids, which are Phalaenopsis Hybrids. I will encompass the fundamentals of light, temperature, and watering along with many other cultural tips. The presentation will wrap up with a quick look at some other easier to grow orchids and a Preview of the Orchid Society of Western PA Spring Orchid Show being held on March 15 & 16, 2025 at the Crowne Plaza Hotel near South Hills Village.

I am a lifelong resident of the South Hills. I have been an avid gardener since I was a kid and have been a passionate orchid grower for the past 20 years. I have been a member of the Orchid Society of Western PA since 2008. I am currently serving a second term as its President. I hope to see you at my presentation.